CITY OF SEWARD
2020 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Volume II
July 29, 2005
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE.................................................................................................................................. 3
1.0
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................ 6
1.1
A GUIDE TO THE USE OF THE 2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN .............................. 6
2.0
BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................. 6
2.1
HISTORY OF SEWARD ................................................................................................... 6
2.2
NATURAL SETTING ....................................................................................................... 7
2.3
GEOLOGICAL SETTING .................................................................................................. 8
2.4
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS ................................................................................ 8
3.0
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENTS ........................................................................14
3.1
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ...........................................................................................14
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.2
Economic Sectors and Location.............................................................................14
Employment and Income .......................................................................................16
LAND USE ...................................................................................................................23
3.2.1 Land Ownership.....................................................................................................23
3.2.2 General Land Use Patterns ...................................................................................23
3.2.3 Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances.......................................................................25
3.2.4 Reconciling Discrepancies between Existing Land Use, Existing Zoning, and Land
Use Plan ...........................................................................................................................28
3.3
HOUSING ....................................................................................................................32
3.3.1
3.4
TRANSPORTATION .......................................................................................................36
3.4.1
3.4.2
3.4.3
3.4.4
3.5
Housing Characteristics .........................................................................................32
Roads ....................................................................................................................36
Parking and Traffic.................................................................................................37
Pedestrian Walkways.............................................................................................37
Transportation Systems .........................................................................................38
PORT AND HARBOR DEVELOPMENT ..............................................................................44
3.5.1
3.5.2
Public and Private Docks .......................................................................................44
Seward Small Boat Harbor....................................................................................44
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
1
2005
3.5.3. Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC)................................................................45
3.6
RECREATION ...............................................................................................................47
3.6.1
3.6.2
3.6.3
3.7
PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ................................................................................55
3.7.1
3.7.2
3.7.3
3.7.4
3.7.5
3.8
Education...............................................................................................................55
Health Care and Social Services ...........................................................................56
City Government and Finances..............................................................................56
Public Safety..........................................................................................................59
Utilities...................................................................................................................60
NATURAL HAZARDS .....................................................................................................65
3.8.1
3.8.2
3.8.3
3.8.4
3.9
Visitor Impacts .......................................................................................................47
Activities and Special Events .................................................................................50
City, State, and Federal Lands with Recreational Facilities....................................53
Seismic Risks: Earthquakes and Tsunamis ..........................................................65
Flooding and Floodplain Development...................................................................65
Steep Slopes, Avalanche and Landslide Areas......................................................67
Saturated Soils ......................................................................................................67
QUALITY OF LIFE .........................................................................................................70
3.9.1
3.9.2
3.9.3
Sense of Community .............................................................................................70
Natural Environment and Community Appearance ................................................71
Historic Preservation..............................................................................................72
4.0
SOURCES
75
5.0
APPENDIX
78
The following documents and updated versions will be incorporated into the 2020
Seward Comprehensive Plan.
5.1 STATE OF ALASKA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SEWARD TRAFFIC
MAP, 2003
5.2
FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
5.3
STATE LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
2
2005
PREFACE
This document was prepared for the City of Seward over the period 2000 - 2005.
Development of the 2020 Seward Comprehensive Plan (2020 Plan) was based on
continued involvement with the City of Seward as well as research and review of the
existing documents by the consultants. The elements of the 2020 Plan incorporate
information gathered during public meetings, Planning and Zoning Commission
meetings, and information from numerous background documents.
The 2020 Plan will be presented to the City of Seward for public review in 2005.
City of Seward
P.O. Box 167
Seward Alaska 99664
City Council
Vanta Shafer
Margaret Branson
Willard Dunham
Robert Valdatta
Kevin Clark
Linda Amberg
Dorene Lorenz
Mayor
Vice Mayor
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
Planning and Zoning Commission
Marianna Keil
Chair
Tom Smith
Vice Chair
Lynn Hohl
Commission Member
Carol Griswold
Commission Member
Sandie Roach’
Commission Member
Steve Schafer
Commission Member
Commission Member
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
3
2005
City Administration
Clark Corbridge
Malcolm Brown
Donna Glenz
City Manager
Planner
Planning Executive Assistant
Special thanks to Rachel James, former Planner, and to Kristi Larson and Nina Daley,
former Planning Commissioners.
Citizens of Seward
The involvement of many Seward residents in preparation of the 2020 Seward
Comprehensive Plan is gratefully acknowledged.
Kenai Peninsula Borough
144 North Binkley
Soldotna, Alaska 99669
Consultant
Sandy Wassilie of High Tide Writing.
P O Box 1576
Seward, Alaska 99664
(907) 224-3950
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
4
2005
City of Seward
Organizational Chart
Citizens
Mayor &
Council
Boards and Commissions
•Planning & Zoning
•Port & Commerce
•Historic Preservation
Police
City Manager
City Clerk
Finance
Fire
City Attorney
Engineering &
Construction
Parks & Recreation
Harbor
Community
Library
Development
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
5
2005
1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1 A GUIDE TO THE USE OF SEWARD’S 2020
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Volume II of the 2020 Seward Comprehensive
Plan is intended to supplement the goals,
objectives and implementation action items set
forth in Volume I with pertinent background
information. Volume II encapsulates the history,
setting, and demographics of Seward and
presents a brief analysis of each planning
element. The nine comprehensive plan elements
include economic development, land use,
housing, transportation, port and harbor development, recreation, public facilities and
services, natural hazards, and quality of life. After each element, a summary identifies
some of the related planning issues and trends.
2.0
BACKGROUND
2.1 HISTORY OF SEWARD
Seward, founded in 1903 as the ocean terminus of a fledgling railway to Interior Alaska,
was incorporated as a city in 1912. Congress purchased the private line in 1915 and
completed rail linkages, which now constitute the Alaska Railroad, to Anchorage by
1918 and to Fairbanks by 1923. The ice-free port facilitated export of the state’s
agricultural, mineral, and timber resources. Seward’s
population gradually rose to about 1,000 until World War II,
when it grew rapidly as a military post. By the early 1950s,
when the Seward Highway was completed, the town had
reached a population of 2,100. The number of residents fell
substantially after the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake, but
grew again in the 1970s in response to the construction of
the Alyeska Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline and diversification of
the economy.
Seward’s small town scale and historic character has mostly been retained through the
years. It has kept its original town site, laid out in 1903 by the Ballaine brothers of the
Railway as vital residential and commercial center. Well-kept older homes line paved
streets; downtown stores are concentrated within easy walking distance of each other.
Larger commercial and industrial development is isolated from residential areas, and
the city shows fewer of the awkward growing pains of haphazard development found
elsewhere in Alaska.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
6
2005
2.2
NATURAL SETTING
Seward is situated at the northern end of Resurrection Bay on the southeast coast of
the Kenai Peninsula, 126 highway miles south of Anchorage. The depth and width of
Resurrection Bay create moderate tides with slight currents averaging 0.2 to 0.6 knots.
There are no overhead or navigational obstructions, and the bay’s waters and shores
are ice-free year round. Fair winds, inconsequential tide ranges, weak currents, and a
north-south orientation make for relatively calm water in the bay.
Seward is located at 60 07' N Latitude, 149 26' W Longitude (Sec. 10, T001S, R001W,
Seward Meridian. Its maritime climate zone with cool summers and relatively warm
winters is due to the moderating influence of the coastal currents flowing through the
nearby Gulf of Alaska.
Average winter temperatures range from 17 to 38 Fahrenheit (F), and the summer
averages from 49 to 63 F. Annual precipitation averages 66 inches of rain and 80
inches of snowfall.
Resurrection Bay, rimmed by mountains covered completely by snow in the winter and
by wildflowers below remnants of glaciers in the summer, gives the town a spectacular
setting. Mt. Marathon provides the western backdrop, the westernmost peak towering at
4,866 feet and the nearer peak rising to 3,010 feet. A glacial fjord itself, Resurrection
Bay serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Other entities that preserve
and manage the natural setting of the surrounding area include the Chugach National
Forest encompassing 890,000 acres, the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and
the Caines Head State Park.
Figure 2.2-1 Project Location Map
ALASKA
ALASSeward
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
7
2005
2.3
GEOLOGICAL SETTING
The glacial fjord of Resurrection Bay, approximately 18 miles long and from 2 to 5 miles
wide, extends southward from the mouth of the Resurrection River. The sides and
bottom of the bay are generally quite steep, with near shore depths increasing quickly to
a maximum depth of nearly 1,000 ft. The depth of the fjord in the vicinity of Seward is
approximately 500 ft.
Seward’s underlying bedrock consists predominantly of graywacke and phyllite. In the
mountains immediately west, graywacke deposits are below the 1,000 foot elevation,
while phyllite predominates above this level. These graywacke formations are generally
tens to hundreds of feet thick. They originated as sedimentary deposits during the
Jurassic and late Cretaceous age, and they were subsequently deformed and partially
metamorphosed during the post-Paleocene. Events of uplift, erosion, and glaciation
have since covered these bedrock formations with fluvial and glacial deposits at lower
elevations.
Most of the downtown portion of the City of Seward is built on the alluvial fan of Lowell
Creek, a feature which extends into the northwest corner of Resurrection Bay. This fan
is approximately 1.25 miles long and 0.5 miles wide. Its maximum elevation of 130 feet
is found at the mouth of the Lowell Creek canyon. Drilling performed after the 1964
earthquake suggests that these Lowell Creek deposits average about 100 feet thick,
with considerably thicker segments exceeding 300 feet found near the Seward end of
the tongue.
Seward is positioned on the main axis of the Chugach Mountains geosyncline. This
feature is aligned in a north-south direction. Although no major fault lines have been
identified in the Seward area, the topography of the region suggests that the valley
system extending north to Kenai Lake and south to Resurrection Bay is at least partially
fault controlled. Surveys made after the 1964 earthquake identified numerous small
shear zones and small faults in the Seward area.
2.4
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS
Over time, the population of Seward has reflected the ups and downs of the economy. A
history of population totals from 1930 is reflected in Figure 2.4-1, and more detailed
figures since 1970 are presented in Table 2.4-1. Population figures in the table include
only the area within the city limits. Over the past several years, the population of
Seward has remained relatively static, despite high overall growth for the Kenai
Peninsula. Between 1990 and 1996, Seward grew 8.0 percent while Kenai grew at 9.9
percent, Homer grew at 11.0 percent, and Soldotna grew at 14.0 percent. Growth in the
late 1970s reflect Seward’s important role in shipping supplies to the North Slope for
construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Several new projects, including the Spring
Creek Correctional Center and development of the Seward Marine Industrial Center,
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
8
2005
stimulated modest growth in the late 1980s. Figures 2.4-2 and 2.4-3 present age and
ethnic characteristics of Seward. Seward has an aging population which has
implications for health care and schools. The population remains predominantly white,
but the number of Alaska Natives is increasing.
Figure 2.4-1 Seward Historical Population
Seward Historical Population
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
19 19 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20
30 40 50 60 70 80 90 00 01 02
Year
Source: Undetermined
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
9
2005
Table 2.4-1 Seward Population Characteristics
1970
1,587
1980
1,843
1984
2,072
1985
2,072
1986
2,279
1987
2,400
1988
2,400
1989
2,829
1990
2,699
1991
2,856
1992
2,878
1993
2,885
1994
2,967
1995
2,918
1996
2,891
1997
2,999
1998
3,040
1999
3,010
2000
2,830
2001
2,768
2002
2,794
Source: US Census Bureau
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
10
2005
Figure 2.4-2 Seward Age Characteristics
Age Characteristics by Year
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
1980
1990
2000
r
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
ar ear ear ear ear ear ear ear ear ear ear ear ove
e
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
d
r 5 to 9 14 19 24 34 44 54 59 64 74 84 an
e
s
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
5 0t 5t 0t 5t 5t 5t 5t 0t 5t 5t
nd
ar
U
1
1
2
2
3
4
5
6
6
7
ye
85
Source: US Census Bureau
Figure 2.4-3 Seward Ethnic Characteristics
Ethnic Characteristics by Year
2,500
2,000
1,500
1,000
500
0
l
ta
o
T
pu
Po
1980
1990
2000
tio
la
n
W
Am
te
hi
e
a
ric
an imo
di
k
n
I
Es
n
e
Al
ut
i
As
a
Bl
ck
fi
ci
a
/P
an
c
.
I..
e
th
O
r
Source: US Census Bureau
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
11
2005
Population Projections
Projections for the population within the bounds of the City of Seward have been
obtained from data in the Seward Statistical Summary and are included in Table 2.4-2.
These statistics generally agree with the data provided in the Kenai Peninsula Quarterly
Report of Key Economic Indicators. Any impact from population on city services and
infrastructure needs to take into consideration the total population of the areas
immediately to the north and south of city limits.
The student population in Seward’s public schools draws on the Bear Creek north to
Primrose and the Lowell Point areas as well as the city. High school students also come
in from Moose Pass. Figure 2.4-4 indicates the student population trends projected to
2007 from 1989 by the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District. The projections are
based on taking the total number of students each year and moving them ahead a year
decreased 2% as a percentage of current downward enrollment trends. Kindergarten
numbers are estimated by the principal of the elementary school, using information such
as the number of younger siblings of enrolled students and day care statistics.
Table 2.4-2 Seward Population Projections
2005
3,245*
2010
3,402*
2020
3,723**
* Numbers extrapolated using
second order regression
** Unofficial figure derived from
Kenai Peninsula Borough estimate of annual change of 0.9%
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
12
2005
Figure 2.4-4 Seward Kenai Peninsula Borough Student Population
600
500
400
Elementary School
Middle School
High School
300
200
100
0
2
8
4
8
0
2
0
4
6
6
-9 1-9 3-9 5-9 7-9 9-0 1-0 3-0 5-0 7-0
9
8
9
9
9
9
0
0
0
0
9
19 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20
Seward Student Population Characteristics and
Projections
Source: Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
13
2005
3.0
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENTS
3.1 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
3.1.1
Economic Sectors and Location
For a community of its size, Seward has a diverse local economy, due in part to its
historic role in the growth of the state of Alaska; its location on a scenic, deep-water,
ice-free bay; and the actions of its leaders and citizens. In the past, it long served as the
southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad connecting passengers and cargo coming by
sea with the rest of Alaska. More recently, it has served as a port on the Alaska Marine
Highway System (AMHS) and various cruise line itineraries, using highway and rail
connections. Marketing the local scenery and proximity to Prince William Sound and to
national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges has contributed to a growing tourism sector.
Salmon, halibut and other fishery resources in nearby waters support both commercial
and charter fishing operations. Community leaders have actively lobbied for economic
development, resulting in the development of thriving institutions such as the Alaska
Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC), the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), the Institute
of Marine Science (IMS) of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Spring Creek
Correctional Center (SCCC). Seward has also used municipal lands and resources to
support the development of the Seward Marine Industrial Center(SMIC), and
construction of the Providence Seward Medical Center.
In recent years, a variety of commercial and industrial activities have developed along
the Seward Highway to the north of Seward, outside city limits. Use of developable land
within city limits is declining, in part due to land outside Seward frequently being
cheaper. While this land provides fewer utilities, it is subject only to borough taxes. This
is an important issue for Seward because development that occurs outside city limits
competes with Seward businesses for a growing population in the area and results in
loss of tax revenues to the city.
Commercial
A wide variety of commercial services are available to local residents and visitors.
These are concentrated in the downtown area along Third, Fourth, and Fifth Avenues;
in the vicinity of the small boat harbor; and along the Seward Highway, both within city
limits and north of Seward. Much of recent commercial development has been in
response to increasing summer tourism and residential growth occurring north of
Seward along the highway.
Industrial
For the most part, industrial operations are associated with shipping coal, petroleum
product sales, gravel extraction, small scale timber manufacturing, fish processing, and
ship repair.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
14
2005
Approximately $250 million worth of
Alaska coal from the Usibelli Mine
near Healy has been shipped to South
Korea since 1984. Shipping by rail to
Seward and loading on ships at a
dock built specifically for coal transfer
Seward Terminal (formerly Suneel),
has had to constantly meet the
challenge of keeping shipping costs
down in order to compete with other
Pacific Rim producers. In fact,
shipment of coal stopped for a period
on September 27, 2002.
In September of 2003, negotiations restored the business relationship and the coal
loading facility was transferred to the Alaska Railroad from Hyundai Merchant Marine. A
two-year agreement between Usibelli Coal Mine, the Alaska Railroad and Hyundai
Merchant Marine allows 400,000 tons of coal to be sold annually to Seoul. The railroad
expects to invest in the coal loading facility to improve its operation to become more
competitive in the global market.
Harbor Enterprises, Inc., a major Alaskan company based in Seward, is a fuel storage,
sales and distribution operation that sells petroleum products locally through Shoreside
Petroleum, Inc. and to other Alaskan communities through other subsidiaries. Gravel is
extracted and processed by Metco, Inc. on the Resurrection River for local use. Small
scale logging and timber processing companies operate in the area. At one point, a
large scale timber processing company was active at SMIC: however, the plant shut
down, and the facility recently collapsed under a heavy snow load. The primary
activities at SMIC are currently boat repair and storage, with dry dock and boat lift
capabilities.
Transportation
The Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC), Alaska Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities (ADOTPF), and the AMHS account for the primary transportation
related economic activities in Seward. As the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad,
the Alaska Railroad dock is used to transfer freight and passengers from summer cruise
ship operations. As previously mentioned coal has also been transported to Seward by
rail. Ferries operated by AMHS call on Seward twice a week during the summer, and
once a week during the winter. Historically, there has been significant local
longshoreman employment associated with marine transportation. Due to limits on
operations related to airport size, terrain, weather, and proximity to Anchorage, air
transportation is not a significant means of transport.
Commercial Fishing
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
15
2005
Commercial fishing consists of the harvesting of salmon, halibut, black cod, and other
species by individual residents who own boats and permits, and of onshore fish
processing. Secondary economic activity is associated with harbor moorage, boat
storage and repair, and purchase of fuel, marine hardware, and other services.
According to the Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development, over
eighty Seward residents hold commercial fishing permits. Processing of chum, silver,
pink, king, and red salmon, and of halibut and black cod occurs at the Icicle Seafoods
(Seward Fisheries) facility in the boat harbor. Smaller processing companies include
Ocean Beauty Sea Foods at SMIC and Resurrection Bay Seafoods just south of town.
Recreation/Tourism
Recreation and tourism generate a significant part of Seward’s economy, particularly in
the summer. Support services vary to meet the needs of different visitors: the cruise
ship passenger; the independent, outdoor traveler; the Anchorage family on a one-day
visit; and the weekend RV camper. Organized events such as the Mt. Marathon Race
and the Seward Silver Salmon Derby attract mainly Alaskan residents, but increasing
out-of-state visitors participate too.
These visitors help support local lodging,
restaurants, gift stores, groceries, fishing supply outlets, and the ASLC. Seward has a
significant fleet of fishing and sightseeing vessels that support a growing charter
industry on the bay. Onshore activities tend to focus in the downtown and boat harbor
areas. Seward has begun to promote winter tourism as well. Two current winter events
are the Polar Bear Festival and the Holiday Train.
Institutional/Government
Institutions have become a significant component of Seward’s year-round economy;
they account for four of the top five employers in Seward (Table 3.1.2.2). Such
institutions as the SCCC and Providence Seward Medical Center also purchase
considerable supplies and services from local businesses. The federal, state, and city
governments and the borough school district also generate year-round employment and
make purchases from local suppliers.
Education and Research
The Qutekcak Shellfish Hatchery has developed quality spat to support the
development of oyster farms and other shellfish farming in the state. With adequate
financing and management stability, it has the potential to grow into a major producer.
AVTEC, IMS, and ASLC all attract professional educators and researchers and in turn
help to develop the technical and professional work force for the state.
3.1.2
Employment and Income
Employment
Figures 3.1.2-1 through 3.1.2-3 show the changes in the percent of employment by
Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) between 1980 and 1998. Total employment in
Seward has increased from 1,753 in 1990 to 2,037 in 1998. Table 3.1.2-1 compares
employment by industry gains and losses between 1990 and 1998. Overall,
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
16
2005
employment has decreased in manufacturing and agriculture/forestry/fishing, and
increased in transportation/communication/utilities, trade, services, and federal
government. Employment for activities directly or indirectly tied to tourism is highly
seasonal, with peak employment occurring during the summer months. Many
businesses dependent on tourism cease or reduce their operations during the off
season. Employment in fish harvesting and processing is also seasonal in nature.
Table 3.1.2-2 lists Seward’s ten largest employers in 1998.
Income
Measurements of income in Seward show increases between 1990 and 2000. Per
capita income in 2000 was $20,360; the median household income was $44,306 and
median family income was $54,904. Household income includes the income of the
householder and all other individuals 15 and older in the household whether they are
related to the householder or not. Family income is the incomes of all members 15
years and older related to the householder and are summed and treated as a single
amount (US Census Bureau). Both the largest percent of household and family income
fell within the $50,000 to $74,999 (22 and 28% respectively) range. Approximately
10.6% of the population was listed as below the poverty level in 2000.
Figure 3.1.2-1 Seward Employment by Industry, 1980
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
17
2005
Source: Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED)
Mining
3%
Local
Construction
3%
11%
Manufacturing
23%
State
19%
Federal
Transportation
3%
4%
Ag, Fish & Forest
1%
Trade
Services & Misc.
17%
Finance
14%
2%
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
18
2005
Figure 3.1.2-2 Seward Employment by Industry, 1990
Construction
4%
Local
9%
Mining
0%
Manufacturing
18%
State
23%
Transportation
6%
Federal
Trade
3%
15%
Ag. Fish & Forest
8%
Finance
Services & Misc.
1%
13%
Source: (DCED)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
19
2005
Figure 3.1.2-3 Seward Employment by Industry, 1998
Mining
0%
Construction
Local
5%
9%
Manufacturing
11%
State
19%
Transportation
11%
Federal
4%
Ag, Fish & Forest
0%
Trade
20%
Services & Misc.
20%
Finance
1%
Source: (DCED)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
20
2005
Table 3.1.2-1 Seward Employment by Industry
1990 to 1998 Gains and (Losses)
Mining
0
Construction
1%
Manufacturing
(7%)
Transportation
5%
Trade
5%
Finance
0
Service and Misc.
7%
Agriculture Fish & Forest
(8%)
Federal
1%
State
(4%)
Local
0
Table 3.1.2-2 Seward’s 10 Largest Employers in 2002
Employer
Average
Annual
Employment
Business Activity
Alaska Dept. of Corrections - Spring Creek
199
State Government
Alaska Heritage Tours
111
Boat Charters
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
94
Local Government
City of Seward
94
Local Government
Alaska Dept. of Education AVTEC
75
State Government
Icicle Seafoods
68
Seafood Processing
Alaska SeaLife Center
58
Research and Visitor Center
Wesley Rehabilitation and Care Center
56
Nursing/Personal Care Facility
Cook Inlet Processing
56
Seafood Processing
Alaska Dept. of Transportation
54
State Government
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
21
2005
Source: Department of Labor
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

Commercial businesses in town will be improved by:
 Increasing the availability of appropriate commercial land in Seward.
 Ensuring development outside city limits pays full costs for utilities and
services.
 Continued development and recruitment of year-round businesses.
 Development of efficient transportation and shipping facilities, such as the coal
loading dock, will help reduce shipping costs and make shipping of natural resources
competitive with other Pacific Rim ports.
 Commercial sea food production which is vital to the local economy but threatened
by global competition and fish farming could be enhanced by:
 Development of wild salmon markets and quality processing to compete with
farmed salmon on the global market.
 Consideration of the potential competition from farming other species of fish
such as halibut and black cod.
 Stable management of the shellfish hatchery and development of spat
markets.
 Branding of Seward fish as a premium product.
 Consolidation of the US National Park Service, US Forest Service, Alaska State
Parks Division, and other like government entities into one building or complex
(currently in progress) should proceed such that it complements the economic
functioning and values of the community.
 Instability of state and federal funding may affect growth of and employment at
AVTEC, SCCC and IMS.
 Highly seasonal employment tied to construction, tourism and fishing causes
dependent businesses to cease or reduce their operations during the off season,
reducing available jobs and access to services for local residents.
 The economic health of the community requires planning that takes into account
impacts of state, national and global trends, including rapid changes in technology and
energy sources. Such planning requires investment in new processes to stay current
with commercial activities, alignment of the efforts of the various community businesses
and organizations, and development of alternative futures.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
22
2005
3.2
LAND USE
3.2.1 Land Ownership
In the developed part of Seward, most land is held privately, but the City of Seward,
Kenai Peninsula Borough, State of Alaska, and Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC)
have developed substantial portions of public lands. The city, state and ARRC also own
undeveloped lands within city limits.
Undeveloped
city
land
is
concentrated in the southwest part of
town and along the northeastern side
of Resurrection Bay. Large blocks of
state land are located along the
Resurrection River and the western
boundary of city land. The ARRC
owns blocks in the harbor and
industrial parts of town. These are
strategic
locations,
which
can
influence the type of development that occurs in Seward.
The borough owns lands developed for the schools and the waste transfer facility while
the state has parcels developed through out town for AVTEC, the airport, and road
maintenance facilities.
3.2.2 General Land Use Patterns
The City of Seward Land Ownership Map, located in Appendix __ shows existing land
use in Seward. The following discussions summarize the general locations of land use
categories within the city.
Residential
Residential uses are zoned into single-family, two-family, multi-family and rural
residential. In some areas of Seward, these uses are concentrated, such as along First
and Second Avenues, and in various subdivisions such as Clear View, Gateway, and
Forest Acres in the northwest portion of town. In other areas, they are mixed in with
commercial development such as along portions of Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Ballaine
Avenues (office/residential and urban residential zones). Multi-family residential use is
scattered throughout parts of downtown and along First and Second Avenues. Large lot
residences not hooked up to city water and sewer occur in Forest Acres and in
scattered areas on the east side of Resurrection Bay.
As indicated previously, there has been residential growth north of city limits adjacent to
the Seward Highway and Nash Road and in subdivisions. These residences use on-site
wells and septic systems.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
23
2005
Commercial
General commercial activity in Seward is concentrated into three areas. The downtown
business district along Third, Fourth, and Fifth Avenues between Jefferson Avenue and
the bay is the largest area of activity. Fishing, marine recreational, and tourism oriented
businesses are located in the small boat harbor and its immediate vicinity. The third
area extends along the Seward Highway from Port Avenue to the northern city limits. As
with residential growth, commercial growth north of city limits relies on highway access.
Availability of land not subject to sales and property taxes may encourage continued
development outside the city, although limited or lack of services such as sewer, water,
fire protection, and emergency service could be a deterrent.
Marine Industrial
Marine industrial use is associated with fish processing, boat repair and storage, marine
fuel storage, transshipment, commodity and passenger transfer, and staging for marine
research vessels and projects. These uses occur in four general areas: on the south
edge of downtown Seward, partway out to Lowell Point; in the vicinity of the small boat
harbor; in the area at the head of Resurrection Bay between the small boat harbor and
the mouth of the Resurrection River, and at SMIC. There is currently additional land
available for this type of use at SMIC, on the east side of the mouth of the Resurrection
River. Additional railroad-owned lands may be available.
Upland Industrial
Upland industrial uses are located adjacent to marine industrial uses, and generally
have some relationship to marine access. The same areas described in marine
industrial apply to upland industrial use.
Public/Institutional
Seward has a significant amount of land devoted to public and institutional use. This
includes facilities owned, leased, or operated by the City of Seward; state facilities such
as AVTEC, SCCC, the airport, and road maintenance facilities; the Institute of Marine
Science; the ASLC; and Kenai Fjords National Park Service Visitor Center and US
Forest Service Seward District Ranger Station. Most of these facilities are scattered
throughout the city. Public and institutional uses do cluster on the southern part of
downtown along or up from the waterfront, in the business district along Fourth and Fifth
Avenues; in midtown blocks along First, Second, Third, and Fourth Avenues, in the boat
harbor on the eastern side of Fourth Avenue, in the industrial area bounded by the
highway and Port Avenue, and near SMIC. In 1995, the city did an inventory and
prepared a public facilities and lands plan. It should be reviewed and updated, with
primary consideration given to consolidation of offices and to the relocation of the city
shop and animal shelter.
Resource Management
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
24
2005
The City of Seward and State of Alaska own a large amount of undeveloped land and
tidelands within city limits. These lands are concentrated on the east side of
Resurrection Bay, along the Resurrection River, and the steep slopes on the western
city limits. Much of this land is zoned under Resource Management, which allows a
wide variety of uses. It may be more appropriate to use the district as a holding zone
that requires rezoning before development or sale.
Open Space/Recreation
A certain amount of land in Seward functions as open space and recreational use land,
including much of the area zoned as Resource Management. A shore side park,
Waterfront Park, with developed campsites for both RVs and tents stretches from the
boat harbor south to the ASLC on the west side of Resurrection Bay. There are also
small municipal parks at various locations.
3.2.3 Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances
Zoning Districts
Table 3.2.3-1 presents the existing zoning districts. The number and specific intent of
zoning districts need to be reviewed and revised. The existing zones also do not reflect
existing land uses in many areas, leading to requests for rezoning, conditional uses,
and variances before the Planning and Zoning Commission when owners wish to
improve their property. As a result, some districts have such a broad range of uses
(e.g. Harbor Commercial) as to render their designation meaningless. Other districts
retain a broad range of uses (e.g. Auto Commercial) by intent.
Subdivision Ordinance
Responsibility for platting is shared by the City of Seward and the Kenai Peninsula
Borough. The city and the borough each have a subdivision ordinance. The party
subdividing a parcel of land within city limits must conform to the city ordinance and
requirements. Preliminary plats are first submitted to the Seward Planning and Zoning
Commission. Once approved, the city prepares and submits written comments with the
plat to the Borough Planning Department which prepares the final plat. Final plats
submitted to the Borough Planning Commission that deviate from the preliminary plat in
a manner not approved by the city are sent back to the city for review.
Code Enforcement
The City of Seward is responsible for enforcing its zoning ordinance under Section
15.01.050 of the City Land Use Regulations. However, enforcement is costly,
cumbersome, and inconsistent given the current procedure. The city code requires that
notice be provided to the owner of a code violation, allowing up to 90 days for
correction. If the violation is not corrected, the city attorney is notified and may initiate
action. Because the enforcement system relies on legal proceedings before other
actions are tried, the city should investigate a more efficient, positive enforcement
process.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
25
2005
Road Standards
The City of Seward currently has no adopted road standards. This becomes an issue
when land is subdivided. The developer builds roads within a subdivision, and those
roads are turned over to the city for maintenance. Roads that are not built to proper
standards may create safety and maintenance problems. In some cases, the city may
elect not to take responsibility for road maintenance, leaving that responsibility to
homeowners. The city should evaluate and adopt road construction standards as part
of the subdivision ordinance.
Infill Development
There is a need to concentrate and enhance existing development in conformance with
the Land Use Plan and there is also a need to limit unguided expansion of land uses
throughout the community.
Table 3.2.3-1 Seward’s Existing Zoning Districts
Rural Residential
(RR)
Zoning Districts
Intended to provide stable, quiet, low density detached singlefamily residential development.
Single-Family Residential
(R1)
Intended to provide stable and quiet, low to medium density (1 to 5
dwelling units per acre) detached single-family residential
development.
Two-Family Residential
(R2)
Multi-Family Residential
(R3)
Intended to provide medium density (1 to 7 dwelling units per acre)
transitional housing area with a mix of single and two-family units.
Intended to provide opportunities for a higher density residential
setting with a mix of housing units, which are predominantly multifamily units close to concentrations of public services, employment
and/or recreation.
Intended to allow an area of higher density mixed residential uses
from detached single-family housing to multi-family apartments in
conjunction with compatible low impact professional office uses in
the surrounding downtown business district.
Intended to provide for a medium density residential, commercial
and office development designed to act as a transition zone
between the high density central business district and surrounding
medium-high density residential districts.
Intended to provide for water-dependent or water-related uses with
particular emphasis on transportation, tourist, recreational,
commercial or industrial enterprises that derive major economic or
social benefit from a harbor location
Intended to provide areas to accommodate highway-oriented
commercial activities such as offices, certain institutional uses, and
limited personal services and retail uses requiring substantial
outdoor activity, traffic and parking.
Established as a district in which the principal use of land is
business, manufacturing, processing, fabricating, repair, assembly,
storage, wholesaling and distributing operations; which may create
some nuisance and are neither properly associated nor compatible
with residential land uses.
Urban Residential
(UR)
Office/Residential
(OR)
Harbor Commercial
(HC)
Auto Commercial
(AC)
Industrial District
(I)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
26
2005
Institutional District
(INS)
Parks District
(P)
Resource Management
(RM)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
Public and private educational, administrative, government and
health care uses, including public land reserve for future public
development. The development standards are a high standard to
assure that the activities provide visual amenity to the surrounding
area.
Intended to designate park, recreation and commemorative
property owned by the city, state or federal governments for
recreation and other compatible public purposes.
Lands that are generally undeveloped and cannot be precisely
zoned due to inadequate information on the extension of public
services and utilities; the suitability of the land to support
commercial, residential, industrial or public uses; and other
possible environmental consideration.
27
2005
3.2.4 Reconciling Discrepancies between Existing Land Use, Existing Zoning,
and Land Use Plan
Existing land use in Seward has changed in a variety of ways over the last twenty
years, and uses in many areas are no longer compatible with the 1985/1990
Comprehensive Plan, Land Use Plans, and with existing zoning districts. A summary of
discrepancies and recommendations is presented for each of seven critical areas
below:
Sixth Avenue and Ballaine Boulevard, from Adams Street to A Street
This area is generally developed as single and multi-family residences with some
businesses. It is zoned as Auto Commercial, and designated as Urban Land Use in the
1985/1990 Comprehensive Plan. Uses allowed under Auto Commercial are potentially
incompatible with the existing residential character.
Recommendations
 Designate this area as Urban Residential (UR).
First and Second Avenues, and Lowell Canyon Road
Generally, this area is developed as single-family, with some two-family and multifamily residences, home occupations, and institutions (Providence Seward Medical
Center, Wesley Rehabilitation and Care Center, and AVTEC). It is currently zoned
Single-Family, Urban Residential, and Institutional. It was designated as Urban
Residential in the 1985/1990 Comprehensive Plan, and later amended to Two-Family
Residential. Two-Family and Multi-Family Residential development is perceived as a
conflict with the traditional neighborhood of single-family homes. The medical and
support facilities, including the helipad, located in this zone require Institutional and
Multi-Family as well as nonconforming uses.
Recommendations
 Maintain First and Second Avenue as Two-Family Residential (R-2).
 Designate the non-Institutional lands along Lowell Canyon Road as Urban
Residential (UR).
Third and Fourth Avenues between C Street and Van Buren Street
Generally, these avenues are commercially developed, zoned Auto Commercial and
Central Business District; and designated as Auto Commercial in the 1985/1990
Comprehensive Plan. Most of the existing commercial uses in this area are allowed in
the Auto Commercial District, have maintained setbacks, and have provided on-site
parking. There are four small lots zoned Central Business District that may have
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
28
2005
difficulties meeting setback and on-site parking requirements if rezoned. The Central
Business zone does not require any building setbacks or off-street parking, and was
intended for the original downtown area where on-street parking is provided.
Recommendations
 Maintain current designation as Auto Commercial (AC).
The lots located from the northeast corner of Fifth Avenue & Jefferson Street,
east to the alley, then north to the Post Office alley
Recommendations
Change from Urban Residential to Office Residential (OR).
The lots located from the northeast corner of A Street and Second Avenue, east
to the alley, then north to Van Buren Street
Recommendations
Change from Single Family (R-1) to Two-family Residential (R-2).
Small Boat Harbor/Commercial Uplands
Generally, the small boat harbor is developed as waterfront commercial with a tourism
emphasis and with several general commercial uses allowed through variances. It is
designated and zoned as Harbor Commercial, which does not allow for commercial
uses unrelated to waterfront activities. The ARRC owns key properties in this location;
their development could enhance or change current uses of the harbor area.
Recommendations
 Input for changes is currently being obtained from the Planning Commission.
 Work with the ARRC to ensure that development of its properties comply with land
use regulations, and are compatible with existing harbor uses to the greatest extent
practicable.
Blocks 1 and 7 of the Cliff Addition
The cliff area over the lagoon is developed as Single-Family Residential, zoned as
Single-Family Residential; but designated as Urban Residential in the 1985/1990
Comprehensive Plan. Single-Family Residential districts allow only single family homes
and accessory apartments (efficiencies), and the Urban Residential District allows a mix
of residential uses including single family homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings.
Recommendations:
 Designate as Single-Family Residential (R-1).
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
29
2005
Clear View Subdivision between Resurrection Boulevard and Bear Drive
This neighborhood is developed primarily with single-family homes and a few duplexes,
zoned as Two-Family Residential; and designated as Single-Family Residential in the
1985/1990 Comprehensive Plan.
There was mixed public opinion, with some
requesting a Single-Family Residential district which allows only single-family homes
and accessory apartments. Two-Family Residential districts allow a mix of single-family
homes and two-family units or duplexes.
Recommendations
 Input for changes is currently being obtained from the Planning Commission.
 Designate this area as Two-Family Residential (R-2)in the plan (input from meetings
several years ago).
Gateway Subdivision Addition No. 1
The area is essentially undeveloped due to the lack of utilities and finished streets. It is
zoned Multi-Family Residential, and designated Single-Family Residential in the
1985/1990 Comprehensive Plan. While Single-Family Residential districts are restricted
to single-family homes and accessory apartments, Multi-Family Residential districts
allow a variety of uses including: single family homes, duplexes, apartment buildings,
nursing and retirement homes, hotels/motels, and senior and teen centers.
Recommendations
 Initiate a rezone from Multi-Family to a mix of Single-Family (R-1) (on exterior block)
and Two-Family Residential (R-2) (on interior block).
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends
General Land Use

Large lots for rural residential use are not uniformly hooked up to city water and
sewer in the Forest Acres Subdivision and in scattered areas on the east side of
Resurrection Bay.

Rural residential growth utilizing on-site wells and septic systems along and off the
Seward Highway north of city limits raises environmental concerns.

Commercial growth along the Seward Highway corridor north of city limits may take
businesses and tax revenues from the city

Limited or lack of services such as sewer, water, police protection, fire protection,
and emergency service to the areas beyond city limits may create health and safety
problems as well as service demands without reimbursement that impact the city.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
30
2005

Ongoing dialogue between the City of Seward and ARRC is desirable to finding
mutual benefits in the development of railroad properties, in particular, so their uses
are compatible with city land uses and zoning regulations

Consultation with the state regarding the status and possible disposition of its
undeveloped land and tidelands (mostly zoned Resource Management) is necessary
for future land use planning.

The status of undeveloped, city-owned lands and tidelands (mostly zoned Resource
Management) in view of future land use needs should be reassessed for possible
rezoning, development and/or sale.

An update of the plan/inventory for public facilities should give primary consideration
for consolidation and/or relocation of uses such as the city shop and animal shelter.
Zoning Code Changes and Enforcement

Consolidation of zoning districts and the uses allowed given the unusually large
number of zoning districts for the small town size and uses which overlap several
zones should be considered.

Revision of zoning districts to reflect existing land uses in many areas may lessen
the number of requests for rezoning, conditional uses, and variances coming before
the Planning and Zoning Commission, thereby lessening confusion and encouraging
development (see above recommendations).

Revision of unwieldy enforcement processes would help provide consistent, feasible
enforcement of zoning and land use regulations.

Adoption of road construction standards would provide developers consistent
guidelines and provide the city with roadways which are safe, well-drained and easy
to maintain.

Revision of subdivision code, working in cooperation with the Kenai Peninsula
Borough, is necessary to incorporate new standards, including road construction
standards, and to streamline the subdividing process.

Encouragement of developing older, long and narrow lots in the original town site by
use of incentives would help revitalize the downtown economy.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
31
2005
3.3
HOUSING
3.3.1 Housing Characteristics
Tables 3.3.1-1 and 3.3.1-2 present Seward housing characteristics for 1990 and 2000.
With the exception of a three percent increase in the total number of housing units,
housing characteristics have remained generally the same in terms of occupancy,
housing type, and characteristics of households. The number of renter-occupied is close
to the same number as the owner-occupied housing units, and the number of units in
large apartment complexes has increased by 20. Median rental rates have increased by
about one third. The main change during the 10-year period is in housing values, which
have shifted upward, and the number of houses in the $200,000 and above range has
increased roughly from 10 to 50. The number of houses in the $50,000 to $100,000
and in the $100,000 to $149,000 ranges has decreased by one third to one half.
What this information does not show is the number of houses being built outside city
limits, both north of town and south at Lowell Point. There is sufficient land within the
city to support population growth for the foreseeable future; however, houses are being
built outside city limits at a higher rate where the population is increasing at a greater
rate than within the city. Factors such as large lot sizes, low cost of land, greater home
values for the money, and lower taxes contribute to this growth. Additionally, reasonably
priced, centrally located, year-round housing is difficult to obtain within Seward. The
Hensley Housing Analysis Report indicated the city should take the lead to counter this
trend by supporting housing initiatives in the private sector. Community surveys taken in
recent years indicate that almost two-thirds of the respondents rate economic growth as
a high priority for the city. Economic growth will inevitably lead to population and
housing growth within as well as outside Seward city limits.
To encourage development within the original town site, the code was modified in 1994
to allow residential development on single lots of less than the minimum building size of
6,000 square feet as long as neither adjacent lot was under the same ownership. The
idea was to allow development of those lots where there was no opportunity for the
owner to increase the lot to the required 6,000 square feet. This development is
presently subjected to required setbacks, lot coverage, and off-street parking.
The Hensley Housing Analysis Report made few recommendations on residential
rentals and leases in Seward. If appropriate land is available to build units for rent or
lease, the need will be met by supply and demand in that market.
Land is the major concern: its price, availability, and access to utilities. Affordable
quality homes for middle income residents should be addressed. Some landowners
want to restrict the number of moderately priced homes on land they own, or sell lots of
only a few can afford. The city should strive to work closely with all landowners, but
especially those who will meet the needs of middle income families.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
32
2005
Table 3.3.1-1 Seward 1990 Housing Characteristics
SEWARD HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS FOR 1990
TOTAL HOUSING UNITS 1,010
HOUSING VALUE
OCCUPANCY
(Owner Occupied Units)
Occupied Housing Units
886
Less than $50,000
22
Owner Occupied
420
$50,000 - $99,000
201
Renter Occupied
466
$100,000 - $149,000
103
Vacant Housing Units
124
$150,000 - $199,000
28
UNITS IN STRUCTURE
$200,000 - $299,000
9
1 Unit Detached
542
$300,000 - or more
1
RENTAL RATES
1 Unit Attached
32
2 - 4 Units
154
Less than $250.00
73
5 - 9 Units
120
$250.00 - $499
198
10 or more Units
120
$500 - $749
134
Mobile Home, Trailer
13
$750 - 999
25
HOUSEHOLDS BY TYPE
$1000 - or more
6
Families
536
Median Rent
$434.00
Married Couples
399
Male Householder
31
Female Householder
106
Non-Family
350
Persons per Household
2
Persons Living in Group Quarters 511
Source: US Census Bureau
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
33
2005
Table 3.3.1-2
Seward 2000 Housing Characteristics
SEWARD HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS FOR 2000
TOTAL HOUSING UNITS 1,058
HOUSING VALUE
OCCUPANCY
(Owner Occupied Units)
Occupied Housing Units
917
Less than $50,000
8
Owner Occupied
461
$50,000 - $99,000
90
Renter Occupied
456
$100,000 - $149,000
137
Vacant Housing Units
141
$150,000 - $199,000
87
UNITS IN STRUCTURE
$200,000 - $299,000
38
1 Unit Detached
585
$300,000 - or more
13
RENTAL RATES
1 Unit Attached
30
2 - 4 Units
165
Less than $200.00
32
5 - 9 Units
123
$200 - $299
47
10 or more Units
142
$300 - $499
87
Mobile Home, Trailer
5
$500 - $749
113
HOUSEHOLD BY TYPE
$750 - $999
83
Families
556
$1000 - $4,499
50
Married Couples
409
$15,000 or more
5
Male Householder
Female Householder
111
Non-Family
361
Persons per Household
2.4
Persons Living in Group Quarters 628
Source: US Census Bureau
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

Development outside of city limits is increasing to accommodate a growing
population. To minimize its effect on Seward and ensure its properties are used
optimally, the city can explore incentives to develop reasonably priced housing
within Seward, such as by rezoning certain areas to encourage residential property
development.

Examining and updating city codes, regulations, and administrative requirements
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
34
2005
affecting land developers, builders, and homeowners may be necessary to
encourage developing several types of housing units at varying income levels.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
35
2005
3.4
TRANSPORTATION
3.4.1 Roads
State and Local Road Systems
The Seward Highway is the principal access route to and from Seward, linking it to
Anchorage and destinations on the Kenai Peninsula. North of the city limits, the Seward
Highway is a two-lane roadway with 12-foot travel lanes and 4-foot paved shoulders.
The posted speed limit is 55 miles per hour (mph) north of Mile 2.0 and 35 mph to the
south. Maintained all the way to Mile 0 by Alaska Department of Transportation, the
Seward Highway becomes Third Avenue in the downtown area. Other primary
roadways include: Nash Road, which extends to the east side of Resurrection Bay; Port
Avenue, which ends at the railroad dock at the north end of the bay; Lowell Point Road,
which hugs the west side of the bay to Lowell Point, just outside of city limits; and
Herman Leirer Road along the Resurrection River to Exit Glacier.
Nash Road intersects the Seward Highway just north of the city limits and provides
access to the residential, commercial, and institutional development on the east side of
Resurrection Bay. Nash Road is a two-lane roadway with a posted speed limit of 55
mph in the vicinity of the Seward Highway intersection. A left turn lane is provided at
the Nash Road intersection. Approximately two miles southeast of the Seward Highway
intersection the speed limit is reduced, and there is an uphill grade in the southeast
direction.
Port Avenue intersects the Seward Highway immediately north of the small boat harbor.
To the east, it also intersects with Fourth Avenue which serves the waterfront in the
small boat harbor area. Fourth Avenue provides a direct connection between the harbor
and the downtown retail core. Downtown, Fourth Avenue is a wide, two-lane street with
angled parking allowed on both sides of the street.
The street system in downtown Seward is laid out in a grid pattern. North-south streets
are treated as through routes with stop signs controlling traffic on the intersecting eastwest streets. On-street parking is allowed on most streets, except at intersection
approaches.
Railway Avenue is an east-west street. It becomes Ballaine Boulevard which runs northsouth along Resurrection Bay, providing access to the Seward Small Boat Harbor. To
the west, Railway Avenue becomes Lowell Point Road which provides access to a
residential and recreational area at Lowell Point, approximately 2.5 miles to the south.
Railway Avenue is paved, with on-street parking limited to the north side of the street.
East of Fourth Avenue, there are curbs, gutters, and sidewalks on both sides of the
street except on the north side where the sidewalk ends at Sixth Avenue. No curbs,
gutters, or sidewalks are provided on Railway Avenue west of the Alaska SeaLife
Center (ASLC).
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
36
2005
3.4.2 Parking and Traffic
Availability of public parking continues to be a summertime issue. Off-street parking for
approximately 570 cars has been developed on city-owned lots adjacent to the small
boat harbor, and spaces for an additional 200 cars is under development by the city in a
new parking lot near the Alaska Railroad Dock, site of the cruise ship terminal, further
down Port Avenue to the east. The harbor parking is not adequate to serve existing
demand during the summer, especially during weekends, holidays, and special events
like the Seward Silver Salmon Derby. During these peak periods, parking overflows
onto the shoulders of the Seward Highway, extending in both directions from the harbor
area. At these times, the nearby softball field Boulder Stadium is also opened for
parking.
Parking spaces in the harbor area are currently limited to four-hour or 72-hour time
periods. As a result, boaters on trips longer than three days have no adequate location
to park for extended periods.
Conditions in the downtown area are somewhat less congested, except
during peak events such as the Fourth of July. From Memorial Day
through Labor Day, a privately owned trolley assists with parking by
charging a minimal fee for shuttling riders. This trolley does a continuous
loop linking the cruise ship terminal to the downtown area. In the
downtown area, on-street parking is permitted on most streets. On
Fourth and Fifth Avenues, angle parking is provided between Railway
Avenues and Jefferson Street. This allows for greater densities of
parking adjacent to the retail uses located on these two streets. Private parking lots
serve some of the businesses, but the majority of businesses rely on the on-street
parking to meet their needs. The ASLC offers parking free of charge.
Although substantial improvements continue to be made, the conclusions of the most
recent Report on Traffic and Parking completed in 1996 by Derek Soden hold today:



There is not adequate long-term parking in the small boat harbor.
Parking in the downtown area consists mainly of short-term parking
generated by downtown shops and services.
Traffic in the vicinity of the small boat harbor sees higher levels of congestion
than downtown Seward.
3.4.3 Pedestrian Walkways
Sidewalks are provided on most streets in the historic downtown area and along Third
and Fourth Avenues to the harbor district. Outside of the core areas, pedestrian
walkways are generally limited to roadway shoulders or unpaved paths adjacent to the
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
37
2005
roadway. A bicycle and pedestrian walkway runs along Resurrection Bay to the high
school.
Pedestrian and bicycle travel within Seward is important to achieving mobility, especially
during the peak summer tourist season. On weekends, the use of bicycles, strollers,
and other pedestrian transport aids increases, since vehicles are likely to park only
once, due to the shortage of available parking.
3.4.4 Transportation Systems
Transit Systems
There is no local, regularly scheduled bus service within Seward. A trolley shuttle
service operates during the summer, primarily for visitors along the major
thoroughfares. Several year-round taxi services serve the general public, and a Seward
Senior Center van, the older residents. Scheduled daily bus service between Seward
and Anchorage, with connections to other Kenai Peninsula destinations, is provided by
Seward Bus Lines. Bus charters and tours to and from outlying areas is also available
from a number of companies.
Rail Systems
The Alaska Railroad Depot is located across from the intersection of Fourth Avenue and
Port Avenue. Daily rail service between Seward and Anchorage is provided from May to
September. Table 3.4.4-1 summarizes passenger ridership on the Alaska Railroad both
ways between Anchorage and Seward from 1993 through 2002. During this period, rail
ridership into Seward has almost doubled from approximately 9,472 to 17,886
passengers. In 2003, the ridership jumped 17%, perhaps due to the opening of the
Anchorage airport depot and the completion of this link with Seward. However, Princess
Cruise Lines shifting its transfer port to Whittier in 2004 may cause a decrease in
ridership.
Table 3.4.4-1
Alaska Railroad Passenger Ridership
Anchorage - Seward
Year
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
Passengers
9,472
10,450
11,105
12,385
12,978
12,829
12,013
13,817
15,432
17,886
Seward - Anchorage
Year
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
Passengers
8,203
8,108
10,516
11,302
11,373
10,952
11,348
12,525
13,282
14,678
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
38
2005
Air Systems
A paved, state-owned airstrip, 4,240 feet long by 100 feet
wide, is located at the north end of Resurrection Bay.
Given its mountainous location, visual flight rules are in
effect. There is currently no commercial air service into
Seward. Flight seeing and transport to nearby
destinations is offered by seasonal charters. Currently,
Scenic Mountain Air and Ultimate Tours maintain a local
base. A number of private pilots keep their aircraft at the
airport which has capacity for 45 tie downs. In 2002 the
Seward Civil Air Patrol squadron dedicated a new hanger
that enhances their search and rescue capabilities.
The current airport is limited by the size of the runway, terrain, and weather.
Improvements made in 1992 including realignment of the access road off the Seward
Highway, increasing the size of the apron, and adding tie downs have led to greater
use. Updating the Seward Airport Master Plan is in progress with a feasibility study for
expansion and flood mitigation underway. City water and sewer service is planned but is
not currently available at the airport. Federal funding for a bypass road from the Alaska
Railroad Dock to the airport was recently made available.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
39
2005
Alaska Marine Highway System
The M/V Tustumena, currently based in Seward, provides ferry service to ports on
Prince William Sound, the southern Kenai Peninsula, Kodiak Island, the Alaska
Peninsula and the Aleutians. Figure 3.4.4-1 depicts the
Southcentral and Southwest Alaska Marine Routes. The M/V
Kennicott, which started services in July of 1998, bases in
Bellingham, Washington and travels to Juneau, Valdez, and
Seward as its main stops. During the winter layoff of the
Tustumena for maintenance, the Kennicott handles its routes.
Tables 3.4.4-2 and 3.4.4-3 each summarize ferry passengers
and vehicles passing through Seward respectively, and Table 3.4.4-4 totals Port of
Seward calls for the ferries M/V Tustumena and M/V Kennicott for the years 1994-2001.
During the peak season from May through September, the M/V Tustumena stops in
Seward two days a week, every three out of four weeks. On Thursdays, the boat
arrives from Kodiak early in the morning and leaves for Valdez later after a five to six
hour layover. On Fridays, the boat arrives in the evening from Valdez and leaves for
Kodiak after a two to three hour layover. The Kennicott generally arrives and departs in
Thursday evenings every two weeks. Both ferries use the Alaska Railroad Dock, which
is also used to dock the cruise ships. Vehicles for the ferry typically arrive a couple of
hours prior to departure. However, if the boat is late or there are large pieces of freight
to be loaded, ferry traffic may be at the dock as much as 12 hours prior to departure.
The Prince William Sound and Southwest Alaska Transportation plans put forth by the
Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities call for eventually
discontinuation of the Tustumena service to Seward. With the advent of a fast ferry in
Prince William Sound, the state can achieve more efficient routing that links
southwestern coastal communities not on roads to the highway system through Homer.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
40
2005
Table 3.4.4-2
AMHS Passenger Traffic
Year
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
Embarking
2,574
2,492
2,545
2,819
3,437
4,044
3,746
3,641
Disembarking
2,570
2,378
2,593
2,750
3,357
3,638
4,044
3,773
Table 3.4.4-3
AMHS Vehicle Traffic
Year
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
Embarking
1,112
1,127
1,079
1,289
1,503
1,831
1,706
1,797
Disembarking
1,095
1,151
1,141
1,230
1,433
1,622
1,697
1,621
Table 3.4.4-4
Year
Port calls
AMHS Seward Port Calls for the M/V Tustumena and M/V Kennicott
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
52
51
55
69
72
86
84
90
Source: Alaska Marine Highway System, Management Information Group
Figure 3.4.4-1 Southcentral and Southwest Alaska Marine Routes
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
41
2005
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends
Roads and Parking
 High levels of traffic along the highway corridor and in the small boat harbor area
during the peak summer season and special events require continued monitoring
and management.
 An adequate number of accessible parking spaces for long-term parking required by
small boat harbor users and visitors needs to be provided.
 Oversized vehicles parking in unsuitable spaces in the downtown area all seasons
create safety hazards, requiring management and enforcement.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Paths
 Foot traffic generated by residents and visitors is substantial year-round, but
anticipated to increase with growing numbers of ports of call. Continued
development of pedestrian and bicycle networks within Seward that include
maintained pathways on roadway shoulders, particularly the highway up to the
Seward Resort; crosswalks, particularly across the highway in the harbor district;
and expansion of sidewalks meeting ADA standards in the downtown area would
increase safe access to local destinations.

Accommodating and managing the increasing use of bicycles, wheelchairs and other
types of mechanized pedestrian travel assistance, particularly during the summer
periods, is a necessary safety precaution.

City support for the Seward Highway MP 0-8 improvement project needs to include a
continuous, separated bike trail.

Development of a plan for constructing, maintaining and managing a trail system
that connects with the pedestrian pathways within the city (see Parks and
Recreation) would enhance foot traffic management and access to the natural
environment.
Transportation Systems
 A viable local, ADA-compliant transit system to connect downtown, the harbor, and
the port area should be identified, and funding for it should be pursued.

Feasibility and funding for local, regularly available bus service within the greater
Seward area during all seasons should be pursued as part of meeting local needs.

Supporting air charter companies and reestablishment of commercial air service into
Seward through airport enhancements should be continued.

Completion of the runway expansion feasibility study, including flood mitigation and
upgrading navigational aids, should be pursued.

A city transportation plan should consider ways of reducing occasional traffic
congestion and freight buildup for the ferries on the Alaska Railroad Dock.

Updating the local transportation plan to increase efficient systems that meet the
needs of users should be pursued in cooperation with the borough, state and
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
42
2005
railroad.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
43
2005
3.5
PORT AND HARBOR DEVELOPMENT
The Port of Seward is distinguished as the historic gateway to southcentral and interior
Alaska where many a pioneer arrived by steamship and traveled north by rail or trail.
Until the Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964 destroyed its facilities, it was the major cargo
port that supported the early growth of Anchorage and Fairbanks. In the 1970s, new
facilities handled shipments of pipe and other heavy supplies for the construction of the
Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline. It is currently designated by the Transportation Security
Administration as the backup port for the Port of Anchorage. Port and harbor facilities
continue to serve local residents and visitors and to support maritime industries.
3.5.1 Public and Private Docks
Public docking facilities owned by the city are available at the Seward Small Boat
Harbor (see details in 3.5.2). Public access beaches owned by the borough and the
state at Lowell Point are informally used for launching boats. Commercial use docks
exist in the industrial area and at Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC) (see 3.5.3).
Institutional and private docks are scattered around the head of Resurrection Bay.
The three docks in the industrial zone are under the control of the Alaska Railroad. The
oldest dock, the Alaska Railroad Dock, is now used to tie up cruise line ships and the
state ferries using an intermodal system. There were 95 cruise ship dockings in 2002,
104 in 2003, and 52 estimated for 2004. The new Freight Dock with rail access just to
the east handles transshipment of a variety of commodities. The dock to the west is a
specialized coal transfer facility. Coal is loaded by conveyor system that moves it from
the stockpile over a trestle extending into the harbor onto large cargo vessels for
transport to Korea. Other potential uses of this loading dock are under consideration.
Research vessels, including the Alpha Helix which homeports in Seward, dock at
facilities owned by the University of Alaska near the Institute of Marine Science (IMS) at
the south end of town. Historically, the downtown city dock adjacent to the Alaska
SeaLife Center (ASLC) and IMS was used by the Alaska Marine Highway System, but it
is now decommissioned. Dock facilities, and vessels using them, in this area are
subject to heavy wave action when winds come out of the south, as frequently occur.
Private docks used for fishing and recreational businesses exist along the western
shore such as Resurrection Bay Seafoods and Miller’s Landing. A large, privately
owned, deep water dock exists near SMIC on the eastern shore. Unused now, it once
served to transfer logs and wood products.
3.5.2
Seward Small Boat Harbor
The Seward Small Boat Harbor was relocated and built in 1965 after the Great Alaska
Earthquake totally destroyed the previous one. Owned and managed by the city, this
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
44
2005
harbor (Figure 3.5.1-1) supports vessels used for recreational boating, commercial
fishing, sport fish charters, and sight seeing excursions. It has over 500 slips assigned
to locals and other state residents, and approximately 2,500 feet of parallel moorage
available for guest boaters, which are sometimes two to three vessels deep. There are
no transient slips although provision of these is under discussion. In 1998 the wait list
for slip space was 339, and in 2002 it was 377. The harbor also includes two double
boat launch ramps, a shallow-draft dock leased to Seward Fisheries, a general cargo
dock, a 50-ton boat lift, repair facilities, and a fuel float. Recently, a $7 million upgrade
to existing harbor facilities was completed, improving floats, ramps, water and electrical
hookups, and sewage pump-out. Funding to complete additional float improvements is
currently being secured.
In 1990, the City Council requested that the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
investigate harbor improvements to expand capacity. Out of four alternatives, the
USACE recommended the East Harbor Expansion Project, which includes a new
breakwater, channel dredging and additional boat slips.
3.5.3. Seward Marine Industrial Center (SMIC)
With the intent of developing an industrial complex at Fourth of July Creek, the City of
Seward established SMIC in the early 1980s. Ship repair and boat storage are the most
active industries. Fish processing, cargo/container handling, and marine related
businesses are also established. Nearby, a wood products operation that was
established in the 1980s ceased operations in the 1990s due to market conditions. The
Spring Creek Correctional Center is also
located nearby.
SMIC includes a 5,000-ton ship lift, a 250ton travel lift, and two deep draft docks,
with a dredged basin adjacent to the
docks. Primary water, sewer, electrical and
fuel services are available. The city is
working with AIDEA and the Alaska
Department of Community and Economic
Development to expand the shipyard.
Construction of a breakwater providing
wave and swell protection as proposed in
the SMIC Development Plan would
facilitate docking of research and Coast
Guard vessels.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
45
2005
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

Demand for small boat slips exceeds the supply. Completing the eastward
expansion of the harbor with continuous, innovative planning to improve safe traffic
flow, serve the needs of a variety of user groups, and increase the number of slips,
including transient slips, will help satisfy the demand and encourage boaters to use
the Seward Small Boat Harbor.

People are launching boats from beach areas that are undeveloped and unmanaged
for such activity. Management of public/private boat launch areas around the head of
the bay, working with private operators and with borough and state agencies, will
better serve recreational boaters and protect intertidal environments

Swells and wave action impact the use of the Fourth of July Creek dock facilities.
Completion of USCAE feasibility study on the construction of a breakwater and
development of a functional commercial harbor at SMIC and planning to implement
recommendations will help address the future use of this area.

SMIC is not used to its capacity. Assessment of current market trends and updating
technologies for possible expansion of ship repair, cargo handling, and facilities for
product development from natural resources would help to update the SMIC
Development Plan of 1995, using assistance from state, borough and federal
economic development agencies.

Inadequate routing of trucks and buses from the port and railroad depot areas
creates congestion and delays. Continued improvement of transportation
connections from commercial docks to existing rail and highway routes, and
potentially air routes, would help to alleviate this problem.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
46
2005
3.6
RECREATION
The Seward area is one of Alaska’s foremost visitor destinations,
close to Anchorage and easily accessible by highway, rail, and
water. Tourism has steadily become an important driver of the
economy and is dependent on Seward’s scenic and recreational
offerings.
Resurrection Bay surrounded by the Kenai and Chugach mountain
ranges provides a scenic backdrop for different types of boating,
fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Other popular outdoor
recreation activities include hunting, hiking, camping, mountain
biking, sea kayaking, canoeing, ice climbing, cross-country skiing,
glacier viewing, and nature study. Most activities occur during the
summer, but several continue throughout the year.
Seward’s proximity to the Kenai Fjords National Park, including land access to Exit
Glacier and the Harding Ice Field; Chugach National Forest; the Alaska Maritime
National Wildlife Refuge; and Caines Head State Recreation Area provide abundant
opportunities for visitors. Other main draws include the Alaska SeaLife Center, the
historical downtown with the Seward Museum, and the Seward Small Boat Harbor with
its bustling marina.
In addition to public recreational facilities on nearby state and
federal lands, the City of Seward owns and manages several
parks, campgrounds, day-use areas, playgrounds, and ball
fields. All public facilities are available to both residents and
visitors. Several fishing and sightseeing charters operate out
of Seward, and many local businesses supply visitor
amenities and activities.
3.6.1 Visitor Impacts
Seward receives large numbers of visitors every year. In addition to
being the southern terminus of the Seward Highway and the Alaska
Railroad, Seward receives weekly ferry service through the Alaska
Marine Highway System has been a popular turnaround stop for cruise
ships visiting Alaskan waters. Commercial tour operators such as
Princess Tours, Holland America/West Tours, and Regency Cruise
Lines include Seward as part of their itinerary, taking advantage of ferry
and cruise ship connections.
Table 3.6.1-1 and Table 3.6.1-2 respectively show 2002 and 2003 numbers of visitors to
different Seward attractions. Seward’s annual visitation has been increasing. Tables
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
47
2005
3.6.1- 3 show cruise ship dockings by year. Most visitations occur between May 15 and
September 15.
Table 3.6.1-1
Seward Chamber of Commerce 2002 Visitors
Chamber
MRC
ASLC
NPS
SP&R
ARRC
Railcar
Cruise
Ship
Closed
January
61
1,662
2,320
122
Closed
Closed
Closed
Exit
Glacier
Closed
February
184
1,837
1,947
22
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
March
210
1,032
4,386
365
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
April
228
2,686
5,695
640
247
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
May
991
9,967
15,310
4,419
3,757
3,440
Closed
10,283
NA
June
2,180
14,036
30,769
12,631
8,368
7,574
1,715
28,498
NA
SUBTOTAL
3,854
31,220
60,427
18,199
12,372
11,014
1,715
38,781
0
July
2,061
14,749
38,516
15,902
10,883
8,378
2,783
41,115
NA
August
8,097
13,134
32,491
13,043
10,254
7,026
1,487
31,121
NA
September
938
3,250
12,073
3,797
8,912
2,296
Closed
11,532
NA
October
483
612
3,496
316
Closed
Closed
Closed
682
Closed
November
450
450
2,350
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
694
Closed
December
255
648
1,565
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
462
Closed
Site Totals
16,138
64,063
150,918
51,257
42,421
28,714
5,985
124,387
309,042
Table 3.6.1-2
Total
Visitors
177,582
792,925
Seward Chamber of Commerce 2003 Visitors
Chamber
MRC
ASLC
NPS
SP&R
ARRC
Cruise
Ship
Closed
January
71
636
2,013
Closed
Closed
Closed
Exit
Glacier
Closed
February
197
624
2,517
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
March
198
1,053
4,594
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
April
253
2,740
5,661
591
396
Closed
499
Closed
May
1,006
10,166
16,034
4,660
2,841
1,974
5,718
28,103
June
2,500
14,317
29,074
3,745
7,091
5,162
13,525
70,148
SUBTOTAL
4,225
29,536
59,893
8,996
10,328
7,136
19,742
98,251
July
2,809
15,044
40,232
12,392
10,871
6,420
38,232
73,110
August
9,034
13,397
34,110
10,255
10,139
6,176
33,285
88,356
September
834
3,315
11,221
3,745
2,308
1,922
13,525
36,860
October
749
624
4,644
7,400
Closed
Closed
7,090
Closed
November
320
462
2,179
1,423
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
December
110
661
1,731
110
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Site Totals
18,081
63,039
154,010
44,321
33,646
21,654
111,874
296,577
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
48
Total
Visitors
238,107
743,202
2005
1
In the above charts; Chamber is Seward Chamber of Commerce; MRC is the Military Resort Center presently called
the Seward Resort; ASLC is the Alaska SeaLife Center, NPS is the National Parks Service Visitor Center, SP&R is
the State Parks and Recreation Department; ARRC is the Alaska Railroad Corporation; Railcar is a satellite
information site used by the Chamber of Commerce, discontinued in 2003; and Exit Glacier is the only inland station
of the Kenai Fjords National Park.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
49
2005
Table 3.6.1-3
Seward Chamber of Commerce Cruise Ship Dockings
Cruise Ship Dockings
1989
27
1990
29
1991
28
1992
37
1993
61
1994
94
1995
106
1996
105
1997
105
1998
109
1999
97
2000
97
2001
108
2002
95
2003
104
Source: Seward Chamber of Commerce
3.6.2 Activities and Special Events
Annual Events
Every summer, several special events attract large numbers of visitors. The well-known
Fourth of July celebration includes the unique, longstanding Mt. Marathon Race. The
newer Breath of Life Run on Lost Lake Trail, and the Seward Silver Salmon Derby are
held in August.
Seward promotes winter tourism as well. Almost 20 years old, the Polar Bear Jump is a
great boost to the economy in January. The Seward Resort (Military Recreation Camp),
a year-round establishment, provides snow machining and other winter activities. The
Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Holiday Train, which brings Christmas shoppers
from the Anchorage area to purchase local arts and crafts in December. The ASLC is
open year round. Some sightseeing tour boats and several fishing charters are active in
the winter. The NPS and USFS rent out cabins for cross-country skiing and winter
outings. Over a decade old, the Mayor’s Cup Sled Dog Race event, is put on by the
Seward Iditarod Trail Blazers in March or April after the Iditarod Race is completed.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
50
2005
Boating
Seward is one of four major recreational boating
centers in southcentral Alaska, along with Homer,
Valdez, and Whittier. The amenities of the Seward
Small Boat Harbor, such as boat slips and launch
ramps, in conjunction with the protected nature of
Resurrection Bay contribute to boating popularity.
Recreational boating includes motorized vessels,
sailboats, and sea kayaks. To a lesser extent,
boating activity also originates at the Fourth of July
Creek facilities off of Nash Road and from public
beaches at Lowell Point. Popular boating activities
include fishing and general excursions within
Resurrection Bay and nearby to areas such as the
islands in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and Aialik Bay in Kenai Fjords
National Park. Most boating activities occur during the summer months, with peak
activity during the Seward Silver Salmon Derby in early August.
Fishing
Fishing is perhaps the major recreational activity in Seward. Resurrection Bay is home
to one of the largest silver (Coho) salmon fisheries in Alaska. Sport anglers target
hatchery king salmon as well as silver, pink, and
chum salmon and Dolly Varden char.
Resurrection Bay is also a popular spot for
bottom fish species such as halibut, rockfish, and
lingcod. Most fishing occurs from boats,
particularly for silver salmon, halibut and rockfish.
As early as May, fishing begins in outer reaches
of Resurrection Bay as salmon begin showing
up, and it moves closer towards town as the run
progresses till as late as September.
The Seward shoreline offers excellent shorebased fishing, particularly for silver salmon. All
freshwater drainages in Resurrection Bay are
closed to salmon fishing, but fishing is permitted
from the beach. Popular fishing areas include Waterfront Park south of the ball fields,
and from Founders Monument to the west side of the old City Dock. Miller's Landing
provides water taxi drop off and pickup service to Tonsina Beach.
Camping
Both tent camping and RV parking are accommodated at ten different sites within city
limits. The three largest municipal campgrounds (Marathon, Resurrection North and
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
51
2005
Resurrection South) are located along Waterfront Park,
popular for the readily accessible shoreside. Other
camping areas include Forest Acres Park and the Spring
Creek area off Nash Road across Resurrection Bay. By
the Pond, Bear Creek and Fjords RV parks are located just
north of town in locations close to the Seward Highway. To
the south, camping including RV parking is found at Millers
Landing.
Table 3.6.2-1 shows capacity, types and amenities for the
municipal campgrounds. The campgrounds are at capacity
during peak use periods such as Fourth of July and the Seward Silver Salmon Derby;
spaces are usually available during the rest of the summer
Table 3.6.2-1
Capacity and Characteristics of City Campgrounds
RVs
Tents
Estimated
campers per
1
season
Marathon
90
0
Resurrection North
114
Resurrection South
Port-a-Potties
Picnic Tables
5,400
0
4
0
4,500
2
20
93
0
4,800
0
35
Iditarod
20
0
1,750
0
2
Tent Area
0
31X2
3,000
0
30
Spring Creek
20
50
1,500
1
0
Forest Acres
10
30
1,500
0
8
Seaview
80
0
4,500
3
5
Williams Park
0
31X2
3,000
3
30
427
260
35,000
9+6*
134
Campground
Waterfront Park
City Total
Source: Seward Parks and Recreation Department 2002
1
Calculate as number of spaces occupied.
* Other city day use areas
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
52
2005
3.6.3 City, State, and Federal Lands with Recreational Facilities
Municipal
In addition to campgrounds, the City of Seward operates several. day use areas,
including picnic areas, ball fields, a skateboard park, a volleyball court, a horse shoe
area, a bike path, and several day parks. Many of these recreation activities are
concentrated along the shoreline in Waterfront Park. Both residents and non-residents
use these facilities. Hoben Park (also called Iditarod Park) is the southern terminus of
the bike path that extends north along Waterfront Park to the small boat harbor. At Van
Buren Street, one branch crosses the highway, connecting with the boardwalk that
skirts the lagoon, and then continues up to the schools. Other day parks include
Kawabe Park downtown, Two Lakes Park and Trail off Second Avenue, Second Lake
Park at the south end of Vista Avenue, Benny Benson Memorial Park at the south end
of the lagoon, and the Forest Acres Park and BMX Track on Dimond Boulevard.
Children’s playgrounds with equipment are near the Little League Field, at Third Avenue
near Adams Street, and at Dora Way. Covered pavilions used for picnics and
celebrations have been a part of Waterfront Park, but were recently torn down for safety
reasons. The city expects to replace them through waterfront improvement funds.
State
Caines Head State Park and Recreation Area consists of 6,000 acres located on the
west side of Resurrection Bay, approximately six miles south of Seward. It is accessible
only by boat or by a 4.5-mile trail that starts at Lowell Point. The park contains bunkers,
gun emplacements, and other World War II facilities associated with Fort McGilvray. It is
a popular destination for hikers and sea kayakers. The potential to use state lands
exists for other recreational purposes, such as snow machining.
Federal
The Chugach National Forest, one of two national forests in Alaska, borders Seward to
the north and east. Several USFS campgrounds and trailheads are located along the
Seward Highway between Seward and Anchorage.
Seward is considered the gateway to the 650,000-acre Kenai Fjords National Park. The
park includes the Harding Ice Field and several fjords to the southwest of Seward.
There are flight-seeing charters, cruise ship stops, and marine charter excursions into
this rugged region from Seward. Land access to the park is provided at Exit Glacier
(Mile 3.7 of the Seward Highway). A visitor center, ranger station, picnic area, and walkin campground are located at Exit Glacier, which is only open during the summer. A
second visitor center is located near the Seward Small Boat Harbor next to the
harbormaster’s office.
In addition, portions of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge are located within
the southern end of Resurrection Bay, and include islands south of the bay, such as the
Chiswell and Pye Islands. As with the Kenai Fjords National Park, half and full-day
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
53
2005
sightseeing tours traverse through or stop at portions of the Alaska Maritime National
Wildlife Refuge.
The United States Air Force and United States Army operate military recreation camps
on 23 acres of land leased from the city called the Seward Resort. These camps are
located about Mile 2, on the west side of the Seward Highway. US Air Force facilities
consist of trailer accommodations, cabins, RV sites, and tent/campsite spaces; and an
administrative complex (with game room, laundry, and shop). US Army facilities include
duplex units, a 40-bed wooden barracks, RV sites, and tent sites.
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

Tent camping tends to be popular with both visitors and seasonal workers, but space
is limited for the demand, causing camping in areas without proper
accommodations. Planning and development of adequate tent camping areas in
conjunction with temporary housing may help address this continuing problem.

Covered pavilions were very heavily used by local residents and visitors because of
frequent inclement weather, so their replacement needs to meet this need and
enhance the use of Waterfront Park.

During the summer, residents often feel they do not have access to the waterfront
during periods of peak demand. Increasing capacity and managing campgrounds
and parking effectively during periods of peak demand may help both residents and
visitors during the summer months.

Changes in the nature of cruise ship docking from exclusive turnaround operations
to more port-of-call stops will put incredible demands on the community to provide
activities for large crowds ranging from several hundred to one thousand day
passengers who will be making more frequent visits per season than in the past. A
comprehensive recreation facilities plan that includes continuous maintenance and
improvement of existing facilities while continuing to expand them is necessary.

While many winter activities are pursued by individuals, these are not organized and
marketed, so Seward may be missing opportunities. It is missing out on the Arctic
Winter Games coming to the Peninsula in 2006. With planning and developing of
outdoor recreation areas and developing infrastructure, such as more groomed ski
trails, more outdoor winter enthusiasts will be encouraged to visit.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
54
2005
3.7
PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
3.7.1 Education
The community possesses a full range of educational opportunities. Operated by the
Kenai Peninsula Borough, Seward’s public schools are: Seward Elementary School,
with grades pre-school through six, Seward Middle with grades seven and eight, and
Seward High School with grades nine through twelve. A new elementary school was
completed in 1990. Construction has begun on a separate facility for the Middle School,
and is slated for completion August 2005. The city has adequate school capacity to
absorb substantial growth.
Various postsecondary education opportunities are available to Seward residents as
well. The Kenai Peninsula College under the University of Alaska Anchorage offers
college courses in Seward and supports a halftime coordinator. Recently, in 2003-2004
the number of students taking courses increased 60% up to 89, showing the most
growth on the Kenai Peninsula.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks maintains its Institute of Marine Science (IMS) in
Seward. Through this institute the university performs oceanographic research to
support the state’s maritime industry and provides some graduate level courses to
visiting students. The National Science Foundation owns the university-operated
research vessel the Alpha Helix, which homeports in Seward. A replacement vessel is
under design and will be completed by approximately 2007.
The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) offers training to an average of 1600
local and state residents annually. Courses in various skilled trades and technologies
include mechanical and maintenance occupations, computer and network support
training, business and office technology, distance educator training, culinary arts and
sciences, certified nurses assistant training, and other occupations. Its Alaska Maritime
Training Center provides a variety of Coast Guard approved courses and is
distinguished for its state-of-the-art radar navigation and ship’s pilot training programs.
AVTEC is also Alaska’s authorized Cisco Networking Regional Training Center.
Several courses can be granted University of Alaska Anchorage credit as well as
national certifications. The school also can tailor specific training programs of short
duration for Alaska employers.
Educational programming for the general public is offered through a variety of
institutions. The IMS Seward Marine Center sponsors public lectures and educational
programs at the K.M. Rae Building Visitor Center. The Kenai Fjords National Park
Visitor Center offers natural history and Seward history through lectures and programs
on site and on sightseeing charters in Resurrection Bay. The Alaska SeaLife Center has
become a premier destination for school field trips from Anchorage and other parts of
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
55
2005
Alaska. Occasional lectures given by researchers on the status of their work appeal
more to adults.
3.7.2 Health Care and Social Services
Seward offers a broad range of health care services, which also contribute significantly
to the local economy. The Providence Seward Medical Center offers primary medical
care services, specialty clinics, emergency room, laboratory, radiology, home health
care, and physical therapy services. Four physicians staff the center. City voters
approved a plan in 1996 whereby Providence Health Systems, Alaska would take over
administration of the Seward General Hospital and the city would sell bonds to finance
construction of a new medical building. The new building was completed in 1997, and
afterwards, the 1956 building was torn down. The hospital is owned by the city and
managed by Providence Health Systems. Those with serious injuries and illness
requiring specialized care are sent by air or ground medivac to Anchorage.
The Wesley Rehabilitation and Care Center
provides long-term care services, with a capacity
of 40 beds. The City of Seward and Providence
Heath Systems negotiated a co-location
agreement in 2003, and planning for a new facility
has begun.
Other health-related services in Seward include
two medical clinics, two dentists, and an Alaska
Public Health nurse. SeaView Community
Services, a nonprofit human resource agency,
provides mental health counseling, chemical
dependency counseling, family support services, crises intervention, and social
services, working with the schools and a variety of agencies. Both SeaView and the
Seward Independent Living Center serve individuals with disabilities with a residential
and support services.
3.7.3 City Government and Finances
Seward is a home-rule city located within the Kenai Peninsula Borough. An elected
seven-member council directs the city manager. City services are funded through
several taxes and service charges. Taxes include a four percent sales tax, a four
percent bed tax, and a property tax of 3.12 mils. The borough also levies a property tax
(see Table 3.7.3-1) and a two percent sales tax. Other fiscal information is presented in
Table 3.7.3-2 and Figures 3.7.3-1 and 3.7.3-2. The recently formed Bear Creek Seward
Flood Service Area has the option to assess up to .5 mils.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
56
2005
The Kenai Peninsula Borough functions similarly to counties in other states.
Incorporated in January 1964 as a second-class borough under the authority of the
State of Alaska, the borough is responsible for area wide education, solid-waste
management, planning and zoning, taxation, and assessment. The borough has
delegated planning and platting advisory authority to the city. Locally authorized service
areas provide hospital, fire, flood, emergency, and recreation services. An elected
mayor serves as the chief administrator and works with an elected nine-member
legislative assembly. The borough delegates education responsibilities to the Kenai
Peninsula Borough School District which is managed by a superintendent hired by an
elected nine-member school board.
Table 3.7.3-1 City of Seward Property Tax Rates Direct and Overlapping
Governments
1
Fiscal Year
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
Fiscal Year
3.00
3.00
3.00
3.00
3.00
3.12
3.12
3.12
3.12
3.12
3.12
3.12
Borough
8.55
8.55
8.62
8.62
8.30
8.38
8.10
7.60
7.10
7.10
6.60
6.60
1
Total
11.55
11.55
11.62
11.62
11.30
11.50
11.22
10.72
10.22
10.22
9.72
9.72
Includes Kenai Peninsula Borough and Kenai Peninsula Community College.
Source: City of Seward Kenai Peninsula Borough
Table 3.73-2
City of Seward Property Value, Construction, and Bank Deposits
Residential Construction
Commercial Construction
Fiscal
Year
Total Real
1
Property Value
Number of
Permits
Value
Number of
Permits
Value
Bank
Deposits
1992
100,667,900
21
842,685
20
620,425
32,518,000
1993
98,261,300
16
328,462
34
1,504,173
27,808,000
1994
111,378,100
20
3,120,673
24
384,400
28,409,000
1995
111,294,400
27
31,539,700
28
746,600
35,186,501
1996
113,853,300
16
8,076,000
31
1,093,800
36,572,000
1997
117,443,100
29
7,770,836
41
1,513,902
38,598,136
1998
117,506,400
24
2,095,035
34
1,493,675
43,350,000
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
57
2005
1999
114,049,300
22
5,937,950
25
1,271,900
47,116,749
2000
167,589,200
23
1,982,065
36
1,469,000
45,217,355
2001
172,127,800
27
1,922,767
21
794,214
46,527,000
2002
175,990,700
31
4,888,627
31
883,708
42,577,128
1
Includes Kenai Peninsula Borough and Kenai Peninsula Community College.
Source: City of Seward Kenai Peninsula Borough
Figure 3.7.3-1 City of Seward General Fund Expenditures by Function
General
Government
Public Safety
Public Works
Parks and
Recreation
Library
Debt Service
1993 1995 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Total
Figure 3.7.3-2 City of Seward General Fund Revenues by Source
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
58
2005
Taxes
Property Assessments
Licenses and Permits
Inter-governmental
Charges for Services
Fines and Bails
Interest
Misc.
1993 1995 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Total
3.7.4 Public Safety
Law Enforcement
The city police department consists of ten officers and six sworn volunteers that assist
in times when the population swells for special events. The department also provides a
Safe Kids program, drug awareness instruction and an officer in the schools, motor
vehicle registrations, drivers licensing, a 12-bed jail, and 24-hour dispatch and radio
communications for all emergency services on the eastern peninsula. Vehicles include
five police cars. The Seward Animal Shelter, contracted through the police department
provides animal licensing and control.
The police department maintains the 911 service locally with monitors to display
incoming caller information, phones for the hearing impaired, marine VHF, emergency
Citizens Band radios, and civil defense phones. This service is articulated with the
Kenai Peninsula Borough system.
The State Troopers service most of the eastern peninsula (up to Mile 52 on the Seward
and up to Mile 62 on the Sterling Highways) with one sergeant and two troopers based
in Seward and have a mutual aid agreement with the city to assist each other with law
enforcement. All search and rescue operations are coordinated by the troopers and
include the US Coast Guard and Civil Air Patrol as necessary. One wildlife enforcement
officer serves the same area.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
59
2005
Fire Services
Seward maintains two fire stations. The main fire station is located on Fourth Avenue
and a satellite station is located in SMIC. The main station houses three engines with
tanks (two 1,500-gpm and one 1,250 gpm), two rescue units, a brush rig, and three
support vehicles. The satellite station houses one-1,250 gpm truck and a rescue unit.
There are two hydrant systems, one on the west side of the bay and a separate one for
SMIC. A department staffed by a full-time chief and deputy with 30 volunteers provides
fire services within the city. Services include fire suppression, search and rescue,
vehicle extrication, inspections, and plan reviews, as well as public training and
education. The City of Seward has a mutual aid agreement with the Bear Creek Fire
Service Area. The latter operates a rural volunteer fire department which serves the
outlying areas of the community and are under the jurisdiction of the Kenai Peninsula
Borough.
Emergency Medical Services
The Seward Volunteer Ambulance Corps covers a service area out to Mile 38 on the
Seward Highway, and also provides ground transportation to Anchorage. They provide
emergency medical services, with 18 trained volunteers and three Type-1 Advance Life
Support Ambulances. The Seward Fire Station and the Bear Creek Fire Service Area
both have a dive rescue team, and search and rescue response capability.
Emergency Preparedness
The City of Seward operates under an Emergency Preparedness Plan that provides
direction and control during periods of emergency. It gives emergency instructions to
use with the public, and directs how to coordinate with outside assistance from private,
state, federal and national relief organizations. The plan includes check lists to provide
for maximum protection of life and property as well as recovery efforts after an
emergency. This plan is updated and maintained by the Seward Fire Department and
can be viewed at the fire department or library and at all city departments. It was
currently updated in 2004.
3.7.5 Utilities
Seward has since its founding underscored the importance of modern, well functioning
utility services. Information on providers, capacity, usage, recent developments, and
identified needs are summarized below for the major utilities.
Water
The City of Seward provides water to its residents from groundwater sources at 3,800
gallons per minute (gpm). Total reserves equal 620,000 gallons. Water consumption
has averaged 1.2 million gallons per day (gpd). Much of the existing water system in
Seward was built by the USACE prior to the construction of the Seward Highway.
Originally designed as a conventional loop system, it has subsequently developed in a
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
60
2005
linear fashion due to the topography of the area.
The City of Seward 2010 Comprehensive Plan identified that water capacity was
adequate in 1990, “but the infrastructure is old and will eventually be in need of
replacement.” A recent water and sewer plan produced detailed recommendations for
system improvements.
In recent years, the city has taken several measures regarding water service, including
the restriction of development in the Lowell Creek watershed area to protect the city’s
potable water supply, and the extension of water service to SMIC. In addition, two new
wells have been installed at Fort Raymond, and one well was upgraded.
Table 3.7.5-1
Seward Well Pump Data
Tank Water Surface
Well No.
Capacity (gpm)
Control Evaluation (ft)
Pump On
Pump Off
- non-operable -
1
-
2
750
3
300
4
1,500
202.00
206.00
5
850
202.00
206.75
6
1,000
201.00
204.75
- manually operated -
- manually operated -
Wells 2, 4, 5, and 6 are currently operational, with Well 2 energizing only if Well 4
cannot keep up the demand. Well 5 is used intermittently during peak demand periods
or when Well 4 is being serviced. Wells 1 and 3 will be taken out of service.
Wastewater
The Seward wastewater system serves the immediate city, and a separate system, the
Fourth of July Creek area. Some areas, such as the airport and Cliff Addition, are not
currently served. Usage is approximately 700,000 gpd through the sewer main and
pump station. It is rated at 880,000 gpd. The system has a capacity of twice that
volume. Wastewater for the city proper is treated at the Lowell Point Wastewater
Treatment Plant by a series of four lift stations. The treatment plant is located
approximately one mile south of the central business district outside city limits.
Wastewater for the Fourth of July area is treated at SMIC.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
61
2005
The sewer system consists of a network of collector sewers that serve residential and
commercial customers, and then discharge into the main line interceptor sewer at
various points along its length. The interceptor system consists of a combination of
gravity sewers, pump stations, and force mains that transport sewage, beginning from
the Forest Acres Subdivision in the north. It then collects sewage along the Seward
Highway, Fourth Avenue, Ballaine Boulevard, and Railway Avenue, and finally
discharges it to the sewage treatment lagoon located off Lowell Point Road.
Power and Fuel
The Seward Electric System (SES) operated by the City of Seward purchases its
electrical power from Chugach Electric Association. Based on historic sales and the
long-term economic forecast, Chugach sales to SES are expected to increase. This is
according to a recent 2002 Power Requirements Study done by Chugach Electric in
December of 2001. Chugach’s retail sales have increased at a moderate rate that is
consistent with the economic growth rate for the entire state of Alaska. Power is
supplemented with five diesel generators. Total capacity for Seward is 10.5 megawatts
(MW). The electric utility service area extends north of the city limits to approximately
Mile 24 of the Seward Highway.
Several improvements have been made to the city’s electrical system in the past
several years. The power system has been upgraded to include the 115 KV line from
Mile 44 to Mile 25. The power line from mile 18 to mile 3 has also been upgraded to
115 KV in capacity; however, that segment is energized only to 69 KV. Two additional
plans call for the upgrading of electrical distribution and underground burial of electrical
corridors where possible.
Home heating fuel (diesel) is available from Shoreside Petroleum. Propane is sold by
100-pound cylinders and smaller.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
62
2005
Solid Waste and Recycling
Solid waste generated in Seward is collected by Peninsula Sanitation under contract
with the city. The Seward landfill, located on the north edge of town, was closed in
1992 and replaced by a solid waste transfer facility, currently contracted by the Kenai
Peninsula Borough also to Peninsula Sanitation. Annually, the Seward Transfer and
Recycle Center sends over 5000 tons of solid waste to the Central Peninsula Landfill
and over 30 tons of aluminum, glass, newspaper, corrugated cardboard, and office
paper to the Anchorage Recycle Center. In 1997, an inert waste land fill was opened,
accepting land clearings, metal scraps, and construction materials up to a given limit
annually. Excess inert material is transferred out. Routing of trucks and weight limits
on roads through Forest Acres are problems for transferring solid waste in a cost
effective manner. Road construction planned as part of a flood mitigation effort
regarding Japanese Creek overflow will help routing problems.
Communications
The local telephone system has a capacity of 15,000 lines, with over 3,300 lines
currently in service. The local utility also provides long-distance service through several
other communications providers, including internet services through the local TV cable
system and a recently laid fiber optic cable. Seward facilities currently has limited
access to the two fiber optic cables running through town, although AVTEC and ASLC
are equipped and can use videoconferencing in their operations. Cellular service is
available through a provider. Upgrading and expanding connections to modern
telecommunications networks need to be continued to support business and
government operations.
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

Seward has incredibly diverse educational and research opportunities. In 2003 an
education forum expanded public awareness of the diversity of resources which,
with strategic planning, could be used to strengthen education and economic
programs.

Generally, the city needs to have public utilities and services which are not out-ofdate in order to maintain and attract new business and industry and new residents.
Some development within city limits is stymied by lack of sufficient water and sewer
service. Extension of the sewer system to properties within city limits on the west
side of the bay, to SMIC and the airport continues as a need.

People continue to be concerned about the quality of city water. Replacement of
aging infrastructure for water distribution and protecting the city’s potable water
supply in the Lowell Canyon watershed continue to be concerns.

Providing sufficient power to attract industry is an ongoing concern, and energizing
the transmission line into Seward remains a possibility. The city is also interested in
bringing liquid natural gas as a fuel if a viable distribution system can be established
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
63
2005
and gas can be shipped into Seward at a feasible rate. Such an effort may be more
likely with the development of a liquid natural gas line.

Transporting solid waste from the Seward Transfer Facility to the Seward Highway
through Forest Acres continues to be an issue with truck routes and road weight
limits.

Area wide animal control is an issue because the Kenai Peninsula Borough does not
provide this function, but the city does and is called on to handle problems. Animal
control services, in cooperation with the borough in areas beyond the city, and
relocation of the animal shelter to a more suitable location should be continued.

Most communication transmissions to and from Seward go through a limited number
of main trunks of limited speed which are slow. Although much improved, continued
updating of telephone and telecommunications equipment and lines is necessary to
provide fast, reliable service so that agencies and businesses can be more efficient
and up-to-date in their practices.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
64
2005
3.8
NATURAL HAZARDS
The City of Seward is particularly susceptible to earthquakes and tsunamis and to
stream flooding which may be aggravated by heavy
rains, melt runoff, heightened tidal action, and
severe winds. During winter, deep snow and
avalanches occasionally hamper transportation and
emergency response in the community, potentially
a major factor during a disaster. Natural hazards
are something with which the City of Seward is all
too familiar, and the community has taken a variety
of steps to mitigate their effects. In addition to
controlled development, land use may be subject to
requirements of other programs such as Kenai
Peninsula Borough Coastal Management (CMP)
the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), and the US Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE).
3.8.1 Seismic Risks: Earthquakes and
Tsunamis
The 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake had a devastating effect on Seward with loss of life,
destroyed livelihoods, property damage, and a changed landscape. The waterfront area
along the west side of Resurrection Bay with the loss of the Port of Seward and Alaska
Railroad facilities suffered the most lasting damage. Development
should continue to be controlled in this area of high seismic risk with
zoning restricted to Parks.
In response to the 1964 earthquake, Seward became the first
tsunami ready community in Alaska. The USACE conducted a study
that located hazardous zones. Seward has placed warning signs in
those areas and has restricted development, keeping the beachfront
as a park and camping area. In order to protect property owners and
insurance companies from undue financial hardship related to
natural hazards, the City of Seward participates in the national
Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating system and programs. This allows for reducing
insurance liability and rates and provides incentives for more safety measures.
3.8.2 Flooding and Floodplain Development
Flooding of streams and rivers has historically occurred in Seward and the outlying
areas as all flat land along the southcentral Alaskan coast is floodplain. The most recent
flooding occurred in 1986 and 1995. Seward participates in the National Flood
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
65
2005
Insurance Program and last revised its floodplain maps in 1988. Recently, Seward
voted in the 2003 Kenai Peninsula Borough election to form a flood service area with
Bear Creek to address the most persistent, regularly occurring problems.
Albert Schafer who has long experience with Seward’s flooding issues and construction
repairs clearly delineated these problems to Tyler Jones (City Manager) in a 1994 letter:

Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel and Canyon - Much of Seward is built on the alluvial
fan created by Lowell Creek prior to the tunnel being built to divert it away from
Jefferson Street and the downtown area. The Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel drains
Lowell Creek and Lowell Canyon streams through Bear Mountain to Resurrection
Bay. The tunnel is constructed through rock and is grouted and lined with rails on the
bottom in an attempt to prevent damage from heavy rocks and debris that flow
through the tunnel. These rocks do cause extensive damage and erosion which
require periodic rebuilding and repair of the tunnel’s interior. The tunnel is
susceptible to plugging up and the rock above the portal is unstable. This has the
potential for catastrophe and can cause floodwaters to come straight down the
canyon to Jefferson Street and downtown. There are several homes in the canyon
with only one way out, which can be a life threatening situation. A possible solution
could be to drill another tunnel alongside the present one to keep the excess water
and gravel under control leading it directly to the ocean.

Lowell Point - The stream at Lowell Point which had a landslide during the flood of
1986 needs to be kept as clear as possible. This will give an unobstructed straight
flow to the ocean and avoid the sewage lagoon that is directly in its course.

Japanese Creek - During the 1986 flood, the Japanese Creek breached the dike
next to the water tank. The Creek is at high velocity at all times, but particularly
during flood events. It shoots straight out of a narrow
steep canyon and then makes a left turn heading
toward the garbage dump. If Japanese Creek breaks
through or near this corner it will head directly for the
two schools and possibly the Recreation Camp,
Forest Acres, and many homes below. A possible
solution would be to apply relief from below. By
excavating material to build the “dump road” it will
provide a barrier to flood waters from the branch of
Resurrection River, it will assist in creating a very large deep channel up Japanese
Creek, and it will give relief to traffic volume on Diamond Blvd. A recommendation
was made that the road should come across from Airport Road. At that point rip-rap
should be placed by bridge #3 to avoid the present flow of water towards the
highway, instead of the bridge opening, from Resurrection Bay.

Resurrection River - The Resurrection River channels and the airport erosion needs
attention. The first live stream on the Brice property continues to flow silt into the
excavation basin at the railroad dock. Protection of the airport through erosion and
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
66
2005
flooding needs to be assessed. The water needs a way to escape and the channel
needs to be straightened. A solution to this can be to fill and develop tidelands near
the railroad dock and fronting the Brice property over to the first live stream. By riprapping the river side it will assist the river in straightening out, and with this fill in
place, it will not be able to disperse until it is out far enough to not be a nuisance at
the docks. By digging from the bottom or tide line up the river, widening, deepening,
and straightening, it will create velocity enough to carry the future excess material.
This material can be used beneficially to develop city owned tidelands into highly
desirable industrial property.

Mile Two Streams- The small stream at Mile 2 is excavated each year. The stream
at Mile 2.5 should be channeled every couple of years to avoid coming out of its
banks as it did during the 1986 flood. This is private property owned by the Darlings.
If the lower reaches are not constantly cleared the road in this area is susceptible to
being destroyed.

Fourth of July Creek - The Fourth of July Creek is powerful when it reaches flood
stage. During past years it has exceeded its limits. During the 1986 flood the large
river velocity took out the rip-rap wall posed the potential threat of heading directly
for the ship lift. If the short break water on the northern side of the valley behind the
Spring Creek Correctional Center (SCCC) were to break it could enter the SCCC,
and also destroy the sawmill and chip pile. A flash flood would threaten to breach
the dike.

Subdivision Flooding - As a result of city floodplain delineation, planning, and flood
control projects, most flooding during high rainfall events occurs outside of municipal
boundaries. The Old Mill Subdivision and the Questa Woods area are very
vulnerable to flooding.
3.8.3 Steep Slopes, Avalanche and Landslide Areas
Steep slopes, which may be susceptible to avalanches and landslides, occur on the
edge of town west of First Avenue, on the west side of Resurrection Bay along Lowell
Point Road, the eastern section of Nash Road as it goes up the hill toward the Fourth of
July Creek area. Based on recent experience in towns like Cordova which has
experienced damage from avalanches, the potential for avalanche/landslide hazards to
develop in areas of steep slopes should be analyzed.
3.8.4 Saturated Soils
Areas where soils are saturated with water or where the groundwater is high can create
problems with foundations, water damage to structures, and cause on-site sewage
disposals to malfunction. These areas are often found adjacent to rivers, lakes, and
coastal areas and are classified as wetlands by the USACE. Areas classified as
wetlands may be subject to development restrictions.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
67
2005
The major categories of wetland types that have been mapped for the Seward area by
the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) include estuarine, bogs and muskegs (formally
palustrine) and riverine areas. Areas that have been identified as seasonally or
temporarily flooded have also been mapped. These areas have certain functions and
values with regard to habitat, flood and erosion mitigation, and human use other than
development. The functions and values have both practical and regulatory implications
for use and management of public and private lands, including the following:

Estuarine and riverine areas are likely to be considered for a variety of functions by
state and federal regulatory agencies, which require permits for development in
these areas.

Areas of high habitat function and value support species of recreational and
commercial importance to Seward (such as salmon); development impacts to these
areas will be scrutinized by permitting agencies. Development of public lands with
habitat value should be carefully evaluated.

Areas of high function and value for flood and erosion protection help mitigate
potential property damage from these hazards; their development, however, can
increase damage to other properties, and require carefully evaluation.
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

Because of the limited amount of land in the city and because of the desirability of
waterfront property, pressure to use the waterfront for higher density development
continues. The high seismic risk calls for continued restriction by zoning and
implementation of safety codes that promote low density development.

Tsunamis readiness is compromised by not having local, continuous 24-hour
earthquake monitoring.

The following flood dangers exist:
 The Lowell Creek Diversion Tunnel could in times of high water clog up or
collapse, resulting in flooding of several Lowell Canyon homes and the
hospital.
 The stream at Lowell Point being susceptible to landslides can lead to road
closures and flooding.
 The dike next to the water tank could breach from high velocities of Japanese
Creek, flooding Seward Resort and Forest Acres.
 Resurrection River channel problems can lead to airport erosion and potential
flood problems for roads and structures in the industrial area as occurred in
the 1995 flood.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
68
2005
 Mile Two streams can clog up and flood roads, damaging them.
 Potential for a flash flood from the breaching of the dike at Fourth of July
Creek could endanger lives at Spring Creek Correctional Center and/or
community security.
 Some subdivisions, because of the way buildings are sited and spaced, are
vulnerable to flooding.

Construction has begun on steep slopes and cliff areas without a good analysis of
the stability of soils and of the potential for avalanche and landslide hazards.

Problems with foundations, water damage to structures, and possible malfunction of
on-site sewage disposals due to saturated soils are ongoing home owner problems.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
69
2005
3.9
QUALITY OF LIFE
Important for Seward residents, quality of life is influenced by a sense of community,
natural environment, historic preservation, and community appearance.
3.9.1 Sense of Community
As a community, Seward has taken many deliberate steps to retain and improve the
quality of life enjoyed by residents and visitors. Investments in city services and
infrastructure, educational and economic opportunities, health and social services,
housing, recreation, and historic assets have been discussed throughout this plan.
Many of these efforts are the results of previous comprehensive planning by the citizens
and officials of Seward and are ongoing today.
Previous plans and surveys reveal positive factors as expressed by its residents:











Pristine natural resources
Recreational opportunities
Low crime rates
No traffic lights or parking meters
Slow pace of life
High quality public services
Cultural variety
Highway and boat accessibility
Small town community atmosphere
Less congestion than other towns
Good place to raise children
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
70
2005


Business and job opportunities
Heritage and history
Factors that negatively impact the quality of life according to residents include the
following:











Poor climate
Drug and alcohol abuse
Lack of shopping options
Lack of cultural activities
Inadequate parking
Need for beautification of public and private property
Shortage of full-time, year-round employment
Isolation from other towns
High cost of living
Influx of tourists and crowding
Lack of housing options
3.9.2 Natural Environment and Community Appearance
Seward is surrounded by a dynamic ecosystem of mountains, ice and ocean. The
natural environment supports a vast array of wildlife, including sea otters, orcas, whales,
sea lions, sea birds, eagles and bears. Boat and plane tours, as well as kayaking and
hiking bring people closer to these natural assets. The Kenai Peninsula has an
impressive trail system that is still developing. In the Kenai Fjords National Park, one
can view calving glaciers by boat or hike to the Harding Icefield from the Exit Glacier
entrance. The ASLC offers a close up view of Alaska’s marine ecosystem through its
aquariums. There are many different areas in Seward to view different types of birds. In
Kenai Fjords National Park one can see a variety of sea birds. At Exit Glacier, one can
view owls and watch for nesting dippers. In the marsh area at the end of the Seward
airport, one can find many wetland species, and in the Small Boat Harbor, different
types of gulls and loons.
Sometimes the natural environment is shaped by political and natural events. The
Caines Head State Recreation Area is the scenic site of abandoned World War II
structures including Fort McGilvray and the South Beach Garrison. The 1964
earthquake has left some visible history behind, although it may not be immediately
recognizable. The Seward Community Library features the running of earthquake film,
and the Seward Museum offers a variety of displays depicting Seward’s history.
Accepted as a great asset by its citizens, the eclectic nature of the local architecture
reflects the history and diversity of Seward. That Seward has a tremendous amount of
community pride is evident in the showcase of its historic structures. The Seward
Historic Preservation Commission and the city’s Community Development Department
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
71
2005
have inventoried many of its historic properties, working closely with local citizens. In
the last decade, the downtown Railroad Depot, the Ray Building, and the Brown and
Hawkins store have been restored. Recently, the Alaska Department of Natural
Resources completed a Historic Structure Report on the Jesse Lee Home working with
a local advisory board, and the City of Seward is pursuing restoration funds for
rehabilitating the structure.
In addition to increased restoration of historic buildings, Seward
has improved its landscaping and beautification, given more
attention to sign control, enhanced litter control with recycling
collection bins established around town, and increased
community cleanup efforts. These include the annual Super
Saturday cleanups hosted by the Parks and Recreation
Department in May, newly painted dumpsters at campgrounds,
and the annual coastal clean-ups hosted by the ASLC. Some of
the beautification efforts include the painting of nearly a dozen
murals reflecting important Seward themes on different wall
expanses around town.
3.9.3 Historic Preservation
The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) was enacted in 1966 requiring that
historic and prehistoric properties be taken into consideration during implementation of
all federally funded projects. The NHPA established several programs to encourage
historic preservation. These include the National Register of Historic Places and
matching grant funds administered through state historic preservation offices.
In 1974, the State of Alaska passed the Alaska Historic Preservation Act. The
commissioner of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources was given overall
responsibility for historic preservation duties. To assist the commissioner are the Alaska
Historic Commission and the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). The SHPO
administers the Federal Historic Preservation Fund Program. It serves as a
“clearinghouse” of information on the state’s historic, prehistoric and archaeological
resources; and encourages and assists local governments in historic preservation
activities through the Certified Local Government (CLG) program.
The designation of Seward as a CLG affords the city the opportunity to request
assistance from state and federal experts in a wide variety of preservation disciplines.
As a requirement of CLG status, the city created the SHPC in 1992. This body of
appointed citizen volunteers was tasked to look into Seward’s historic assets including
historic buildings, archaeological sites, and documents. They were charged with the
development of a historic preservation plan, identification and inventory of local historic
and prehistoric resources, making recommendations for properties eligible for the
National Register, and acting as an advisory body to the city council, city administration,
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
72
2005
and other boards and commissions.
The Seward City Council sets policy for historic preservation matters while the city
manager and his staff implement the necessary local ordinances and resolutions.
Having National Register status offers property owners tax credits and technical
assistance for preservation and rehabilitation on a voluntary basis.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
73
2005
Summary of Planning Issues and Trends

The Historic Preservation Plan, Phase II (1996) has set forth community goals for
historic preservation in Seward along with the historical perspective and background
for the political and economic framework within which these goals will be achieved.
In a small community such as Seward, it is unreasonable to expect that a position in
the city government would be dedicated to historic preservation oversight and
development. If the responsibility continues to fall within the Community
Development Department, the staff of two persons will have difficulty devoting the
necessary amount of time to historic preservation efforts.

The Historic Preservation Plan offers goals that were generated by work sessions
with the SHPC and refined through public input. Activities have been researched and
developed. Target dates and responsibilities have not been set forth. Before this
happens, the roles of the SHPC, Community Development Department, and other
City of Seward staff need to be clarified and aligned with the goals.

Community opinion is uncertain about enacting additional local regulations and
zoning requirements as a strategy to implement historic preservation. Community
opinion may be shaped by a lack of awareness of historic preservation goals, lack of
explicit incentives, and unclear procedures to follow.

Any changes need to conform to the Land Use Plan. Current land uses allowed in
the historic district also need to be reviewed for compatibility with historic
preservation goals.

Overlay districts can impose additional requirements that may require the assistance
of an architect to identify essential design elements to help develop guidelines,
although many communities use the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Historic
Preservation. Any such adoption and implementation of design standards needs to
be approached with awareness of community sentiment on over-regulation and
probably be linked with economic incentives for historic preservation.
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
74
2005
4.0

























SOURCES
Albert Schafer Flash Flood write-up sent to Mr. Tyler Jones City Manager,
(December 1994)
Kenai Peninsula Borough GIS Division - Seward Historical Flooding Map http://www.borough.kenai.ak.us/
Kenai Peninsula Borough Quarterly Report of Key Economic Indicators, March
2002-March 2004)
Kenai Peninsula Borough Transportation Plan, Draft Final Plan, HDR Alaska,
(November 23, 2003)
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District, Student Population Numbers and
Projections from Lassie Nelson and Lori Olsen
2002 City of Seward Federal Legislative Priorities
City of Seward Emergency Preparedness Plan (January 2002)
City of Seward Capital Improvement Plan, Capital Projects List (September 2002)
Seward Chamber of Commerce Customer Contact List (February 2002)
Seward Chamber of Commerce Tourist Statistics - Seward, Alaska, A Brief
Overview of the City, State, and Region(Fall 2001)
Chamber of Commerce Assorted Updated Tourism Information from, Linda Ashley
(2004)
Alaska Railroad Updated Passenger Ridership Information
Alaska Marine Highway System Updated Information for 2003
Department of Labor, Census Population and Housing Statistics from,
Neal Fried and Ingrid Zaruba
Icicle Seafood Processing Plant, Species Processed Information from,
Charles MacEldowney
The Great Alaskan Earthquake & Tsunami of 1964 – www.wcatwc.gov/64quake.htm
Anchorage Daily News ( September 27, 2002)
Usibelli’s Last Shipment to S. Korea Ends Era
Seward Harbor Master, Updated Information from Jim Beckham
Millers Landing Tonsina Beach Salmon Stream – www.millerslandingak.com
ADF&G Sport Fish - Resurrection Bay Area Description – www.sf.adfg.state.ak.us
Water and Sewer Updated Information from WC Casey, Public Works Director
and Loyd Welch Water/Sewer Superintendent
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
75
2005





































Parks and Recreation Updated Information from Mark Stauble
Health Care - Providence Hospital Updated Information from
Ben Faust, Plant Manager
Chugach Electric Updated Information from Carl Harman, Anchorage
Shoreside Fuel Updated Information
TelAlaska Updated Information Updated
Facilities and Tsunami Updated Information from David Squires, Fire Chief
Report on Traffic and Parking, City of Seward, Alaska, Derek Soden (August 1996)
KTUU.com, Alaska’s Online News Source, October 2002 Rains
Small Boat Harbor Management Plan (1993)
Seward Parks and Recreation Master Plan (1993)
Final EIS for the Proposed IMS Infrastructure Improvement Project (1994)
Seward Marine Industrial Center Development Plan (1995)
Seward Historic Preservation Plan (1996)
City of Seward Housing Analysis (1997)
Harbor Improvements Final Interim Feasibility assessment (1998)
Prince William Sound/Copper River Area Transportation Plan (2000)
City of Seward Design Study Report Water and Sewer System Modeling and Analyses
(2000)
City of Seward Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (FY 12/2002)
Alaska DCED Database Detailed Community Information (2000)
U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2000 – Demographic and Housing Characteristics
Alaska Department of Labor - City of Seward Employment: 1980-1998
City of Seward Comprehensive Plan – General Introduction (1985)
1990 - 2010 Comprehensive Plan - Accomplishments
Seward Comprehensive Plan 2000Revision Workshop Doc - G & O’s Comprehensive Plan (1985)
Comprehensive Plan 2010 (1990)
Comprehensive Plan, Quality of Life Survey (1990)
1993 Visioning
Common Vision of Seward Partnership (1994)
Resolution for Municipal Lands Plan (1995)
City of Seward Municipal Lands Management Plan (1995)
Community Survey Analysis (1993, 1994, and 1995)
Resolution adopting Historical Preservation Plan (1996)
Housing Analysis (1997)
Chamber of Commerce Survey Results (1998)
APU Quality of Life Community Profile (1999)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
76
2005












Transportation Plan (1999)
Seward Transportation Plan – Draft Topic Discussion Paper (2001)
Resolution for Small Boat Harbor Plan
Resolution for Parks and Recreation Plan
Resolution for Marine Industrial Park Development Plan
City of Seward Strategic Plan (2000)
Water/Sewer System Analysis (2000)
Capital Budget expenditures (FY 2000)
Financial Condition Assessment
Downtown Vision Statement
Average Annual Daily Traffic Counts
Strategic Plan, Annual Review (2000)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
77
2005
APPENDIX
The following documents and updated versions will be incorporated into the 2020
Seward Comprehensive Plan.
5.1
STATE OF ALASKA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SEWARD TRAFFIC
MAP, 2003
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
78
2005
5.2
FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
Sponsored by: Shealy
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2004-125
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,
ALASKA, APPROVING THE CITY OF SEWARD’S CALENDAR YEAR
2005 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
WHEREAS, annually the City compiles a list of projects or issues that are identified as
top legislative priorities; and
WHEREAS, the list of projects is compiled and distributed to the Alaska Congressional
delegation, the Kenai Peninsula Borough, and the City of Seward lobbyists; and
WHEREAS, all the projects on this list are consistent with the City’s Comprehensive
and Strategic Plans.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, that:
Section 1. The following projects are hereby declared to be the official legislative
priority list for the City of Seward for the 2005 Federal legislative session:
PORT AND HARBOR
1. $4.5 million for dock/breakwater at SMIC
2. $3 million for Seward Marine Center dock design
3. $3.5 million for inter-harbor improvements
4. $3.5 million for T-dock and bulkhead
5. $2.8 million for SMIC ship repair infrastructure improvements
ROADS AND STREETS
1. $2 million to upgrade streets and sidewalks
2. $14.9 million for Lowell Point Road upgrade
PUBLIC FACILITIES
1. $16 million for long-term care replacement facility
2. $14 million for multi-agency/conference facility
3. Transfer ownership of Lowell Creek diversion tunnel back to Corp of Engineers
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
79
2005
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the city of Seward, Alaska, this
14th day of December, 2004.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
____________________________________
Vanta Shafer, Mayor
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Branson, Valdatta, Clark, Lorenz, Shafer
None
Dunham, Amberg
None
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Jean Lewis, CMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
80
2005
5.3
STATE LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
Sponsored by: Shealy
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
RESOLUTION 2004-124
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD,
ALASKA, APPROVING THE CITY OF SEWARD’S CALENDAR YEAR
2005 STATE LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
WHEREAS, annually the City compiles a list of projects or issues that are identified as
top legislative priorities; and
WHEREAS, the list of projects is compiled and distributed to the Governor’s Office, our
legislators, the Kenai Peninsula Borough, and the City of Seward lobbyist; and
WHEREAS, all the projects on this list are consistent with the City’s Comprehensive
and Strategic Plans.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA, that:
Section 1. The following projects are hereby declared to be the official legislative
priority list for the City of Seward for the 2005 State legislative session:
INFRASTRUCTURE
1. $3.5 million for 3rd Avenue water line upgrade
PORT AND HARBOR
1. $4.5 million for dock/breakwater at SMIC
2. $3 million for Seward Marine Center dock design
3. $3.5 million for inter-harbor improvements
4. $3.5 million for T-dock and bulkhead
5. $2.8 million for SMIC ship repair infrastructure improvements
ROADS AND STREETS
1. $11 million for mile 0 to 8 of the Seward Highway including lighting improvements
2. $2 million to upgrade streets and sidewalks
3. $14.9 million for Lowell Point Road upgrade
4. $37.5 million for Seward Highway MP 18 to MP 25.5
5. $20.1 million for Seward Highway MP 25.5 to MP 36
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
81
2005
PUBLIC FACILITIES
1. $16 million for long-term care replacement facility
2. $25 million for expansion of the Spring Creek Correctional facility
3. Support AVTEC projects:
$520,000 for increased operating funds
$2 million for deferred maintenance
$2.5 million for dorm remodel
$3 million for welding building to expand welding program
BENEFICIAL LEGISLATION
1. Support continuation of Medicaid programs at not less than current year funding
levels including capital cost reimbursements
2. Support for revenue sharing/safe communities funding
3. Support the Community Dividend Program
4. Support State assistance to municipalities and school districts for PERS/TRS debt
5. Support continued service to Seward by the State Ferry Tustumena
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the City Council of the city of Seward, Alaska, this
14th day of December, 2004.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
____________________________________
Vanta Shafer, Mayor
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Branson, Valdatta, Clark, Lorenz, Shafer
None
Dunham, Amberg
None
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Jean Lewis, CMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
2020 SEWARD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VOL II
82
2005
DIM
-
O
N
D
VD
BL
PO
P
LA
R
S
T
D
AL
C
H
S
ST
T
FIR
W IL
ST
SP RUCE
ST
VD
BL
AS H ST
D
EVERGREEN ST
ELM ST
IM
O
N
AF OGNAK AVE
ST
LA UREL
D
CEDAR ST
MAPLE ST
W
LO
ON
OAK ST
PINE ST
BI
R
ST
DIM
COT TONW OOD ST
ER
D
B
D
LV
HEMLO CK AVE
N
JU
IP
ER
ST
LO C
K AV
E
DIMOND BLVD
HE M
SEA LION AVE
RIVERSIDE DR
BO UNDARY AVE
SH
LP
2
ASPEN LN
B ST
3
4
SHARO N AVE
2
E-
WY
T-M
NO
TC
DH
GE
IR
3
PA
RK
SP
RD
ER
LE
LE
IR
SE
JE
S
CAINES ST
1
AV E
2
DA
IR Y
THIR
D AV
E
1
NA L RD
T ERMI
2
AIALIK ST
X-F LOAT RD
LEIR ER RD
PO RT
2
T DO CK ST
PHOENIX RD
3
FE RR Y
ALICE DR
RESURRECTION BLVD
NORTHW ESTERN CIR
2
BAYVIEW PL
2
1
2
MARATHON DR
BARWELL ST
11
IRO N DR
PHOENIX RD
HAROLD AVE
3
CHISWELL ST
BEAR DR
10
DARRELL ST
L
ED
R
BLUEF IELD DR
ALAMEDA ST
2
9
1
DINAH ST
AR
BENSON DR
1FOR
SE
W
SW ETMANN AVE
PHOENIX RD
NORTHSTA R CIR
GREAT BEAR CIR
COO LIDGE DR
N
LL
HIL
10
11
NORTH HARBOR ST
10
13A
CH
5
BE
AM
FOURTH AVE
4
RA
V IN
FIRST AVE
RD
2
1
N
AS
T
AI
RL
3
VISTA AVE
9
12
6
SO UTH HARBO R ST
6
L
IL
M
ST
Gray Line Denotes City Limits
8
1
7
H
13
8
IR
MC
UL
HU
14
LM
LN
12
10
7
Area of Detail
11
23
22
D ST
3
SMIC
FIFT H AVE
2
FOURTH AVE
3
THIRD AVE
2
SECOND AVE
1
FIRST AVE
VAN BUREN ST
6
7
D ST
24
16
18
17
PINE ST
C ST
L
BA
IN
LA
4
13
E
14
15
VD
BL
B ST
6
9
8
7
A ST
3
2
1
38
37
36
29
30
4
5
39
40
34
4
MO NROE ST
28
27
31
32
33
BETTE CATO AVEN UE
21
BALLAINE BLVD
22
SIXTH AVE
23
FIFT H AVE
FOURTH AVE
THIRD AVE
24
20
T
LC
JELLISON AVENUE
JEF FERSON ST
LOWELL CANYON RD
MUSTANG AVEN UE
2
14
13
16
15
18
17
19
MORRIS AVENUE
OLGA STREET
1
25
NASH R OAD
EL
26
SMIC
ADAMS ST
6
12
7
BROWNELL ST
W
LO
SECOND AVE
MADISON ST
FIRST AVE
DORA WAY
1
COT TONW OOD LN
RU
DAVID AVE
6
DAVID AVE
CIR
8
KELLY AVE
HE
RD
UC
HEMLO CK ST
TO
DELPHIN STREET
AK
AIRPO RT RD
LA
IM
PIA
OLYM
UN
CIR
11
9
10
SORREL ROAD
8
WASHINGTON ST
4
3
RA
ILW
E
AV
AY
Official
Seward Zoning Map
This is to certify that this is the official
Seward zoning map referred to in
Sec. 15.01.030. of Title 15 of the
Seward City Code.This zoning map
replaces all previous official zoning
maps and is intended to incorporate
and contain all revisions as enacted
by ordinances as of this date.
The graphics on this map were produced
from the best available sources. The
City of Seward assumes no responsibilities
for errors, omissions, inconsistencies that
may exist.
City of Seward Zoning Map
Map produced by Quinn Tracy - City of Seward August 2003
Updated By Alaska Map Company 2006 - www.akmapco.com
Legend
City Limits
The graphics on this map were produced from the
best available sources. The City of Seward assumes
no responsibility for any omissions, inaccuracies, or
other errors that may exist.
Adopted by the Kenai Peninsula Borough as part
of the Borough Comprehensive Plan. (Ord. 85-77)
Nov. 5, 1985, amended (Ord. 88-10) May 3, 1988.
Adopted by the City of Seward Ord. 626 Nov. 6,
1989. Effective Jan. 2, 1990.
Rural Residential
Single Family Residential
Two Family Residential
Multi Family Residential
REVISIONS
Urban Residential
No. Ord. Date Attest No. Ord. Date Attest No. Ord. Date Attest No. Ord. Date Attest
Office Residential
Harbor Commercial
Attest:
Auto Commercial
Central Business District
Industrial
Jean Lewis, City Clerk
Institutional
Park
Resource Management
Historic District
0
0.25
0.5
1
Miles
Red Line Indicates
Undeveloped Right-Of-Way
DIM
O
N
D
VD
BL
-
PO
A
PL
R
ST
D
AL
C
H
S
ST
T
FIR
LO
W IL
ST
SP RUCE
ST
VD
BL
AS H ST
Single
Family
Residential
Rural Residential
D
EVERGREEN ST
ELM ST
IM
O
N
AF OGNAK AVE
ST
LA UR EL
D
CEDAR ST
MAPLE ST
W
ON
OAK ST
PINE ST
BI
R
ST
DIM
COTTO NWOO D ST
ER
D
N
JU
IP
ER
ST
Auto Commercial
V
BL
D
HEMLOCK AVE
HE M
LO C
K AV
E
DIMOND BLVD
Park
Single Family Residential
CIR
Auto Commercial
RIVERSIDE DR
6
BO UNDARY AVE
HE
8
Two
Family
Residential
LP
3
2
2
ASPEN LN
B ST
4
Y
HW
D
PL
Industrial
1
2
NORT HWESTERN CIR
AV E
DA
2
INA L RD
Two
Family
Residential
TE RM
2
X-FLOAT RD
LEIR ER RD
PO RT
2
T DOCK ST
PHOENIX RD
3
FE RRY
ALICE DR
RESURRECTION BLVD
AIALIK ST
D AV
E
1
IRY
H IL
LL
Harbor
Commercial
THIR
Rural Residential
ALAMEDA ST
LE
IR
IRON DR
2
BAYVIEW PL
2
DARRELL ST
MARATHO N DR
BARWELL ST
11
C IR
RD
R
ED
LE
SE
JE
S
Single
Family
1
Residential
PHOENIX RD
HARO LD AVE
CHISWELL ST
3
OT
ER
KS
BEAR DR
10
-N
Auu
A
ttoo
Coo
C
mm
m
mee
rrccii
aall
PA
R
BLUEF IELD DR
2
CAINES ST
ME
3
9
Rural Residential
GE
T-
AR
BENSON DR
1FOR
1
DINAH ST
SE
W
SWET MANN AVE
PHOENIX RD
Multi
Family
Residential
NORT HSTAR CIR
GREAT BEAR CIR
COOLIDGE DR
COTTO NWOO D LN
DORA WAY
1
SH
SHARON AVE
RU
DAVID AVE
C
RD
U
DAVID AVE
TO
Institutional
AIRPO RT RD
LA
IM
SEA LION AVE
CIR
PIA
OLYM
UN
AK
N
10
11
NORT H HARBOR ST
10
13A
CH
5
AM
BE
FIRST AVE
RA
V IN
9
12
L
IL
M
ST
8
7
HU
13
8
C IR
LM
KELLY AVE
HU
14
LM
LN
12
10
3
23
22
D ST
THIRD AVE
2
HEMLOCK ST
1
7
Gray Line Denotes City Limits
VAN BUREN ST
SECOND AVE
Rural
Residential
FIRST AVE
Urban 11
Residential
2
3
FIFTH AVE
1
6
SO UTH HARBOR ST
6
FOURTH AVE
VISTA AVE
2
1
RD
3
A IN
AS
T
RL
Single
Family
Residential
FOURTH AVE
4
6
Auto
Commercial
D ST
24
16
18
17
Area of Detail
Institutional
PINE ST
Two
Family
Residential
7
SMIC
C ST
L
BA
IN
LA
4
13
E
14
15
VD
BL
B ST
Institutional
6
Park
9
8
7
A ST
Park
5
4
39
40
3
2
1
38
37
36
MONROE ST
Single
Family
Residential
28
27
34
4
Urban
Residential
30
29
31
32
33
E
22
SIXTH AVE
23
FIFTH AVE
24
21
20
T
BETTE CATO AVENUE
JEFF ERSON ST
LOWELL CANYON RD
2
16
15
14
13
Urban Residential
17
19
18
Park
Office
Residential
ADAMS ST
12
NASH ROAD
6
JELLISON AVENUE
9
10
8
MUSTANG AVENUE
MORRIS AVENUE
WASHINGTO N ST
4
3
RA
ILW
E
AV
AY
Institutional
OLGA STREET
BROWNELL ST
7
11
DELPHIN STREET
1
25
FOURTH AVE
26
Office
Residential
THIRD AVE
FIRST AVE
W
LO
C
LL
SECOND AVE
MADISON ST
Institutional
BALLAINE BLVD
Institutional
Park
SMIC
SORREL ROAD
Central
Business
District
Official
Seward Land Use Map
This Landuse map
replaces all previous official Landuse
maps and is intended to incorporate
and contain all revisions as enacted
by ordinances as of this date.
Resource
Management
City of Seward Land Use Map
Map produced by Quinn Tracy - City of Seward August 2003
Updated By Alaska Map Company 2006 - www.akmapco.com
Legend
City Limits
The graphics on this map were produced from the
best available sources. The City of Seward assumes
no responsibility for any omissions, inaccuracies, or
other errors that may exist.
Adopted by the 2020 Seward Comprehensive Plan
approved by the Seward City Council Resolution
2005-26, April 25, 2005 and by Kenai Peninsula
Borough Ordinance 2005-48, January 3, 2006
Rural Residential
Single Family Residential
Two Family Residential
Multi Family Residential
REVISIONS
Urban Residential
No. Ord. Date Attest No. Ord. Date Attest No. Ord. Date Attest No. Ord. Date Attest
Office Residential
Harbor Commercial
Attest:
Auto Commercial
Central Business District
Industrial
Jean Lewis, City Clerk
Institutional
Park
Resource Management
0
0.25
0.5
1
Red Line Indicates
Miles
Undeveloped Right-Of-Way
AK
UNIM
R
!
%
U
WELL 1
WELL 4
!%
R
U
AD
RO
#
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
R
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
U
%
LATOUCHE
CIRCLE
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
R
!
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
S
#
0
#
#
#
#
#
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
#
#
ASPEN LANE
DORA WAY
ASPEN LANE
0
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
0
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
L FLOAT
±
0
500
1,000
OAK STREET
B FLOAT
#
A FLOAT
#
Seward
Water System
VAN BUREN STREET
#
NORTH STAR
CIRCLE
GREAT BEAR
CIRCLE
SWETMANN AVENUE
RESURRECTION BOULEVARD
0
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
%
U
Lift Station
r
Drain Endpoint
0
#
Storm Drain
0
#
0
#
PO RT
0
#
0
#
0
#
0#
0
##
0
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
r
L FLOAT
U
%
IRY
DA
0
#
0
#
#
0
0
#
UE#0
0AVEN
0
# #
RT
)
"
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
r
Lift Building
0
#
K FLOAT
E
AN
LL
HIL
0
#
J FLOAT
0
#
0
#
H FLOAT
F FLOAT
0
#
N HARBOR
STREET
Railroad
#
Ball Field
#
#
#
#
0
0
#
0
#
Cleanout
U
%
Parcels
0
#
0
#
0
#
D FLOAT
0
#
0
#
0
#
L
IL
M
ET
RE
ST
0
#
0
#
0
#
LM
HU CLE
CIR
C FLOAT
S HARBOR
S
#
STREET
0
#
0
#
0
#
E FLOAT
0
#
0
#
HU
LANLM
E
B FLOAT
S
#
A FLOAT
S FLOAT
0
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
#
#
S
#
S
#
r
Seward
Sewer System
0
#
0
#
HE M
LOC
K AV
ENU
E
HEMLOCK AVENUE
HEMLOCK AVENUE
0
#
0
#
Flush
Road
#
OA
D
0
#
0
#
Seward Fish Outfall
S
TR
E
ET
#
#
ER
R
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
BUREN STREET
VAN
U
%
!
R
0
#
WELL 6
#
#
0
#
S
#
#
D STREET
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
AS H
STRE
ET
MAPLE STREET
AFOGNAK AVENUE
CLIFF VIEW
PLACE
#
#
#
PINE STREET
S FLOAT
0
#
0
#
0
#
MARATHON DRIVE
0
#
0
#
CLIFF VIEW
PLACE
C FLOAT
ELM STREET
HU
LANLM
E
#
COTTONWOOD STREET
BI
R #
CH
ET
RE
ST
CEDAR STREET
ET
LM
HU CLE
CIR
ROAD
CHAMBERLAIN
L
IL
M
#
0
#
Storm Drain Line
R
DE
AL
D FLOAT
#
S HARBOR
STREET
#
Pump Station
0
#
S
#
0
#
E FLOAT
#
0
#
ROAD
CHAMBERLAIN
VISTA AVENUE
RA
VIN
A
ST
RE
#
0
#
0
#
BAYVIEW
PLACE
SPRUCE
STRE ET
F FLOAT
#
EVERGREEN STREET
G FLOAT
H FLOAT
#
ET
RE
ST
Manhole
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
Sewer Line
X FLOAT
#
#
#
0
"
)
S
#
(
!
J FLOAT
#
#
N HARBOR
STREET
Feet
#
K FLOAT
E
AN
LL
HIL
S
#
0BEAR DRIVE
#
0
#
#
IRY
DA
#
0
0
#
0
#
0
#
BARWELL
STREET
Seward
Water System
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
Map Components
0
#
G FLOAT
#
#
UE
AVEN
PORT #
#
#
0
#
0
#
L ROAD
TERMINA
FE RRY
T DOCK STREET
#
#
0
#
0
#
#
L ROAD
TERMINA
FE RRY
ALICE DRIVE
BAYVIEW
PLACE
0
#
0
#
CAINES
STREET
PA
RK
0PL
#
AC S
E
0
#
ALICE DRIVE
#
RESURRECTION BOULEVARD
#
#
0
#
0
#
BLUEFIELD
DRIVE
S
#
CHISWELL STREET
#
FREIGHT DOCK ROAD
NORTHWESTERN CIRCLE
IRON DRIVE
#
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
Feet
BARWELL #
STREET
S
#
NO
T
0
#
0
#
0
#
2,000
#
#
MARATHON DRIVE
#
1,000
0
#
BENSON DRIVE
IRON DRIVE
#
0
#
0
#
E
#
0
#
0
#
RIV
#
#
0
#
LE
ED
#
0
#
FO
CIR RGE #0
CL T M
E
E
JE
SS
E
#
#
ALAMEDA STREET
BEAR DRIVE
#
#
#
±
#
0
#
PHOENIX ROAD
#
#
PA
PL RKS
AC
E
#
0
#
)
"
0
#
ET
RIV
LE
ED
PHOENIX ROAD
CAINES
STREET
CHISWELL STREET
#
JE
SS
E
#
#
0
#
0
#
A
ST
RE
BLUEFIELD
DRIVE
#
#
RA
VIN
#
S
#
COOLIDGE DRIVE
0
#
0
#
VISTA AVENUE
#
#
#
#
OA
D
#
NO
T
#
# BENSON DRIVE
ER
R
³
#
#
0
#
S
#
0
#
LE
IR
³
#
³
#
FO
CIR RGE
CL T M
E
E
#
E
#
NORTH STAR
CIRCLE
GREAT BEAR
CIRCLE
SWETMANN AVENUE
#
0
#
#
COOLIDGE
DRIVE
#
#
#
#
#
#
X-FLOAT ROAD
DORA WAY
#
0
#
ALAMEDA STREET
#
LE
IR
#
NORTHWESTERN CIRCLE
#
T DOCK STREET
#
X FLOAT
#
0
#
S
#
AD
RO
SE
WA
R
AK
UNIM
SMIC
0
#
0
#
AIRPORT ROAD
WELL 5
#
#
LE
CIRC
P IA
YM
OL
R
!
#
LATOUCHE
CIRCLE
#
WELL 3
AIRPORT ROAD
P IA
YM
OL
#
R
!
U
%
R
!
U
%
³
#
U
%
#
SEA LION AVENUE
FREIGHT DOCK ROAD
WELL 2
#
LE
CIRC
0
#
SE
WA
R
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
X-FLOAT ROAD
SEA LION AVENUE
DH
IG
HW
AY
DIMOND BOULEVA
#
0
#
DH
IG
HW
AY
#
DIMOND BOULEVA
#
#
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
D STREET
0
#
U#0%U
%
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
#
0
#
##
0
0
0
#
DIMOND BOULEVARD
#
#
#
#
#
SEA LION AVENUE
R
!
U
%
#
WELL 3
J Station
Booster"
R
!
WELL 5
#
#
#
1,000
Feet
±
#
0
WELB
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
OA
D
0
#
0
#
0
#r
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
STREET
JEFFERSON
0
#
0
#
BAYVIEW
PLACE
#
#
#
r
S
#
0
#
0
#
AD
RO0#
0
#
0
#
#
S
CHURCH STREET
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
#
#
0
#
ADAMS STREET
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
UE
AVEN
PORT #
#
#
#
#
#
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
#
Water Tank
0
#
S
#
S
#
BROWNELL STREET
#
ALAMEDA STREET
#
#
#
#
Hydrant
0
#
0
#
0
#
IRON DRIVE
MARATHON DRIVE
S
#
BALLAINE BOULEVARD
0
#
0
#
S
#
SIXTH AVENUE
0
#
S
#
0
#
#
RESURRECTION BOULEVARD
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
WASHINGTON STREET
0
#
Y
WA
0 IL
#
RA
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
U#0E
EN
AV
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
##
0
0
0
#
0
#
)
"
0
#
#
#
0
#
L FLOAT
#
L
HIL
IRY
DA
Road
J FLOAT
#
G FLOAT
#
Ball Field
Fresh Water
Parcels
#
#
N HARBOR
STREET
H FLOAT
F FLOAT
#
ET
#
#
A
ST
RE
#
The graphics on this map were produced from the
best available sources. The City of Seward assumes
no responsibility for any omissions, inaccuracies
or other errors that may exist.
E FLOAT
#
#
#
K FLOAT
NE
LA
LO WEL
L PO
INT RO
AD
Railroad
Map produced by Quinn Tracy, City of Seward
July 2003
Updated to ARCGIS 9.0
March 2005
www.akmapco.com
0
#
S
#
S
#
#
#
RA
VIN
LO WEL
L PO
INT RO
AD
#
Well House
-
#
The graphics on this map were produced from the
best available sources. The City of Seward assumes
no responsibility for any omissions, inaccuracies
or other errors that may exist.
BEAR DRIVE
Water Line
#
ON
NY
CA
LL 0#0#
WE
LO
S
#
S
#
0
#
S
#
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
FREIGHT DOCK ROAD
#
#
Pressure Reduction Valve
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
0
#
#
BARWELL #
STREET
TA AVENUE
#
Well
0
#
0
#
X-FLOAT ROAD
!
R
³
#
%
U
S
#
0
#
#
X FLOAT
AY
ILW
RA
UE
EN
AV
#
L ROAD
TERMINA
FE RRY
#
#
0
#
L
EL
W RT
LO OU
C
NORTHWESTERN CIRCLE
#
WASHINGTON STREET
#
PA
PL RKS
AC
E
T DOCK STREET
Map Components
#
#
CHISWELL STREET
BROWNELL STREET
Parcels
#
#
RIV
CAINES
STREET
#
#
#
LE
ED
#
Fresh Water
#
BLUEFIELD
DRIVE
0
#
#
ER
R
#
Ball Field
#
#
NO
T
S
#
S
#
MADISON STREET
#
# BENSON DRIVE
Water Tank
Road
#
#
#
FO
CIR RGE
CL T M
E
E
#
LE
IR
#
Hydrant
NORTH STAR
CIRCLE
³
#
³
#
³
#
#
E
#
Railroad
#
GREAT BEAR
CIRCLE
#
#
#
ADAMS STREET #
U
%
#
COOLIDGE DRIVE
#
#
JE
SS
E
CHURCH STREET
0
#
0
#
0
#
ALICE DRIVE
U
%
C
LL
WE
LO
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
Pressure Reduction Valve
-
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
Water Line
#
0
#
0
#
MONROE
STREET
0
#
ASPEN LANE
Well
Well House
0
#
1,000
Feet
#
SWETMANN AVENUE
BALLAINE BOULEVARD
SIXTH AVENUE
FIFTH AVENUE
#
JEFFERSON STREET
#
!
R
³
#
%
U
0
#
0
#
#
PHOENIX ROAD
#
#
- AD
-YON RO
AN
#
FOURTH AVENUE
#
#
#
THIRD AVENUE
SECOND AVENUE
#
L
EL
W RT
LO OU
C
Map Components
A STREET
0
#
S
#
500
#
DORA WAY
#
#
#
WELA
0
#
0
#
#
MADISON STREET
#
WEL6
0
#
B STREET
FIFTH AVENUE
LATOUCHE
CIRCLE
R
!
U
%
0
#
0
#
0
#
FOURTH AVENUE
500
WELL 1
!%
R
U
³
#
U
%
#
#
#
#
0
R
!
%
U
WELL 4
AD
RO
MONROE STREET
#
#
#
RCLE
AK CI
UNIM
P IA
YM
OL
#
#
WELL 2
AIRPORT ROAD
±
#
#
A STREET
#
#
0
#
THIRD AVENUE
#
0
#
0
#
SECOND AVENUE
#
B STREET
0
#
S
#
SE
WA
R
#
C STREET
LOW
LOWEL
ELLLPOIN
POINT
T ROA
ROAD
D
#
)
"
0
#
0
#
0
#
DH
IG
HW
AY
#
C STREET
0
#
D FLOAT
0
#
#
S HARBOR
STREET
C FLOAT
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
Map produced by Quinn Tracy, City of Seward
July 2003
Updated to ARCGIS 9.0
March 2005
www.akmapco.com
0
500 1,000
Feet
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
(
!
/
"
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
/
"
·
#
·
#
(
·
#!
(
!
/
"
±
(
!
(
!
(
!
/
"
4
'
#
*
S
"
(
!
(!
!
(
(
!
4
'
(
!
(!
!
(
( !
!
(
!!
(
(
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
#
*
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
0
4
'
4
'
S
"
#
'
4
*
(
!
500
/
"
1,000
(
!
Feet
(
!
*
/"
"
)"
/#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
U
%
%
U
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
/
"
S
"
#
* '
4
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
4
'
#
*
4
'
/"
"
/
(
!
#
*
'
4
4
'
#
*
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
/
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
/
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
·
#
·
#
'"
4
/
/
"
/"
/ !
("
!
*
!#
(
((
!
·
#
·
#
·
#
!
(
(
!
4 #
'
/
"
*
/
"
(
!
/
"
·
#
#
*
!
(
(
!
#
*
#
*
·
#
(
!
'
4
S
"
#
*
)
"
/
"
(
!
·
#
·
#
#
*
#
4
'
*
!
(
4
'
·
#
4
'
"
/
(
!
Map Components
(
!
#
*
4#
'
*
"#
/
)
"
*
(
!
("
/
#
(!
*!
(
!
'
4
·
#
(
!
·
#
·
#
( #
!
#
*
*
#
*
#
*
#
*
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
#
"*
/
#
*
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
0
(
!
(
!
/
"
Seward
Electrical System
(
!
Pedestal
Vault
Underground Transformer
(
!
Metering Cabinet
Section Can
(
!
(
!
(
!
Steel Lightpole
(
!
Overhead Circuit
(
!
*
"#
/
#
*
(
!
Railroad
4
'
(
!
(
!
·
#
4 #
'
*
Road
(
!
(
!
Fresh Water
#
*
/
"
·
#
·
#
·
#
'#
4
*
#
'*
4
·
#
/
"
/
"
·
#
#
*
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
Seward
Electrical System
·
#
!
(
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
Manhole
Pump Station
(
!
Cleanout
U
%
Lift Building
%
U
Lift Station
Flush
S
( TR
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
!!
(
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
ASH
(
!
STRE
(
!
ET
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
(!
!
(
!
4
'
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
COTTONWOOD STREET
Storm Drain Line
0
#
Road
Fresh Water
(
!
(
!
Parcels
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
HE
( M
!
LOCK
(
!
AV
( EN
!
(U E
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
Ball Field
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
0
#
AS H
STRE
ET
0
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
S
#
(
!
HEMLOCK AVENUE
HEMLOCK AVENUE
0
#
0
#
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
!
(
(
!
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
S
#
4
'
#
*
4
'
4
'
#
*
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
!·
(
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
#
4
'
(·
!
(
!
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
S
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
·
#
!·
(
#
(
!
S
·
#"
S
"
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
S
"
·
#
#
*
·
#
S
"
!
(
/
"
(
!
'
4
#
*
'!
4
(
(!
!
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
·
#
·
#
·
#
MARATHON DRIVE
4
'
(
!
BARWELL
STREET
4
'
(
!
/
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
#
*
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
·
#
·
#
Transmission Line
Railroad
The graphics on this map were
produced from the best available sources.
The City of Seward assumes no
responsibility for any omissions,
inaccuracies or other errors that may exist.
(
!
#
*
(
!
The graphics on this map were produced from the
best available sources. The City of Seward assumes
no responsibility for any omissions, inaccuracies
or other errors that may exist.
Map produced by Quinn Tracy, City of Seward
July 2003
Updated to ARCGIS 9.0
March 2005
www.akmapco.com
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
LM
HU CLE
CIR
HU
LA LM ·
NE #
4
'
'#
4
*
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
RESURRECTION BOULEVARD
#
*
#
*
0
#
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
# #
0
0
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
0
#
0
#
·
#
B FLOAT
'
4
#
*
A FLOAT
/
"
·
#
·
#
/
"
S FLOAT
·
#
#
*
(
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0#
0
##
0
0
#
0
#
Map produced by Quinn Tracy, City of Seward
July 2003
Updated to ARCGIS 9.0
March 2005
www.akmapco.com
J FLOAT
·
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
H FLOAT
F FLOAT
N HARBOR
STREET
0
#
E FLOAT
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
D FLOAT
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
K FLOAT
0
#
0
#
The graphics on this map were
produced from the best available sources.
The City of Seward assumes no
responsibility for any omissions,
inaccuracies or other errors that may exist.
0
#
L FLOAT
U
%
E
AN
LL
HIL
IRY
DA
0
#
0
#
PO RT
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
0
#
UE#0
0AVEN
0
# #
RT
)
"
0
#
Map produced by Quinn Tracy, City of Seward
July 2003
Updated to ARCGIS 9.0
March 2005
www.akmapco.com
·
#
(
!
0
#
0
#
r
H FLOAT
C FLOAT
4
'
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
MARATHON DRIVE
0
#
D FLOAT
S HARBOR
·
#
·
##
*
STREET
·
#
(
!
0
#
0
#
#
*
4
'
·
#
(
!
0
#
4
4 '
'
4
'
/
"
(
!
·
#
0
#
S
#
·
#
#
/
"
*
·
#
(
!
·
#
( #
!
#
*
*
#
*
E FLOAT
#
*
(
!
T
EE
TR
LS
MIL
0
#
/
"
·
#
4 #
'
*
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
0BEAR DRIVE
#
0
#
0
#
BARWELL
STREET
4
'
(
!
ROAD
AIN ROAD
BERLAIN
CHAM
CHAMBERL
(
!
N HARBOR
#
*
4 '
4·
#
/ '
"
STREET
(
!
(
!
S
#
BAYVIEW
PLACE
(
!
S
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
0
0
#
0
#
S
#
(
!
(
!
F FLOAT
·
#
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
0
#
0
#
#
"*
/
#
*
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!!
(
(
!
0
#
J FLOAT
·
#
(
!
Ball Field
·
#
L FLOAT
#
"*
/
(
!
S
"
'
4
·
/
"
#
#
4
'
*
!
(
K FLOAT
·
#
(
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
·
#
!
(
PA
RK
0PL
#
AC S
E
0
#
·
#
Road
Parcels
0
#
/
"
·
#
S
#
CAINES
STREET
!
(
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
"
#
*
0
#
0
#
0
#
UE
AV EN"
/
PORT
("
/
#
(!
*!
(
( !
!
#
'"
4
/
/ ·
"
0
#
BENSON DRIVE
0
#
!
(
(
!
4 #
'
/
"
*
#
*
*
·
##
(
!
/
"
#
*
#
*
·
#
·
#
#
*
·
#
'
4
·
#
·
#
0
#
BLUEFIELD
DRIVE
#
*
"
/
·
#
·
#
4
'
·
#
4
'
"
/
(
!
E !
(
AN
LL
H(IL
IRY !
DA
/
/ !
"
("
!
*
!#
(
((
!
'
4
#
#
*
/
"
*
)
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
Steel Lightpole
Overhead Circuit
4
'
(
!
·
#
·
#
Wood Lightpole
(
!
·
# !
(
0
#
0
#
#
#·
*
/
"
·
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
#
*
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
/
"
(
!!
(
·
#
·
#
Utility Pole
0
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
·
#
BOULEVARD
RESURRECTION
·
#
0
#
)
"
0
#
0
#
(
!
(
!
BAYVIEW
PLACE
0
#
(
!
#
*
/
"
·
#
(
!
( !
!
(
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
4
'
#
*
Section Can
(
!
(
!
(
!
Metering Cabinet
(
!
(
!
( !
!
(
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
Underground Transformer
(
!
4
'
Vault
(
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
·
#
(
!
FO
CIR RGE #0
CL T M
S
#
E
E
NO
T
L RO AD
TERMINA
FE RRY
(
!
(
!
·
#
!
(
·
#
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
4!
'
(
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
Pedestal
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
0
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
S
#
(
!
0
#
BEAR
·
#
S
#
COOLIDGE DRIVE
·
#
4
'
(
!
0
#
(
!
4
'
(
!
!
(
(BEAR DRIVE
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
4!
'
(
PA
R
P'
4LA KS
CE
(
!
/
"
(
!
(
!
AD
ROAD
AL RO
MINAL
TERMIN
RY TER
FER
FERRY
(
!
!
(
(
!
'
4
S
"
#
*
)
"
/
"
(
!
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
Map Components
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
#
*
·
#
·
#
(
!
·
#
(!
!
(
#
*
S
"
(
!
(
!
·
#
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
(
!
#
*
4
'
(
!
4
'
!
(
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
#
*
CAINES
STREET
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
#
( ·
!
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
JE
SS
E
(
!
·
#
PHOENIX
PHOENIX ROAD
ROAD
"
S
/
"
*
!#
(
4
'
T
(
!
NO
T
(
!
(
!
'
4
BLUEFIELD
DRIVE
4
'
#
*
4·
'
#
STREET
CHISWELL
CHISWELL STREET
(
!
(
!
'
4
(
!
4
'
(
!
#
*
(
!
#
*
4
'
4
·
#'
4
'
(
!
#
*
(
!
#
*
·
#
4
'
4 BENSON
'
4 DRIVE
'
RA
VIN
A
ST
RE
E
(
!
4
'
·
#
4
'
(
!
4
'
(
!
4
'
#
( ·
!
/"
"
/!
(
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
#
* '
4
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
4
'
4
'
(
!
(
!
4
'
#
*
#
*
/
"
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
·
#
/
"
#
*
ASPEN LANE
0
#
CHISWELL STREET
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
S
"
/
"
(
!
0
#
FREIGHT
ROAD
DOCK ROAD
FREIGHT DOCK
(
!
4
'
·
#
·
#
(
!
0
#
0
#
ALAMEDA
STREET
ALAMEDA STREET
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
0
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
#
*
'
4
0
#
(
!
(
!
!
(
COOLIDGE DRIVE
(
!
FO
CIR R GE
CL T M
E
E
X-FLOAT
ROAD
X-FLOAT ROAD
(
!
(
!
·
#
!
(
(
!
·
#
(
!
#
*
4
'
4
'
RO
AD
(
!
4
'
#
*
LE
IRE
R
(
!
·
#
#
*
(
!
CIRCLE
NORTHWESTERN
NORTHWESTERN CIRCLE
·
#
0
#
S
#
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
0
#
0
#
S
"
#
'*
4
4
'
·
#
4
'
0
#
(
!
(
!
4
'
4
'
(
!
SWETMANN
SWETMANN AVENUE
AVENUE
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
0
#
(
!
(
!
DORA WAY
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
(
!
#
*
4
'
T
T DOCK
DOCK STREET
STREET
·
#
(
!
0
#
0
#
S
#
ASPEN LANE
4
'
#
*
(
!
LATO
0 UCH
#
E
CIRCLE
(
!
·
#
X
X FLOAT
FLOAT
(
!
·
#
(
!
4
'
·
#
·
#
(
!
·
#
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
G
G FLOAT
FLOAT
(
!
S
"
#
'*
4
4
'
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
4
'
4
'
0
#
0
#
OA
D
4
'
#
*
·
#
NORTH
STAR
NORTH STAR
CIRCLE
CIRCLE
(
!
WAY
DORA
DORA WAY
·
#
(
!
(
!
LE
ED
RIV
E
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
#
IRON
IRON DRIVE
DRIVE
(
!
·
#
(
!
ALICE
ALICE DRIVE
DRIVE
(
!
(
!
(
!
GREAT
BEAR
GREAT BEAR
CIRCLE
CIRCLE
(
!
·
#
(
!
0
#
0
#
AD
RO
(
(!
!
(
!
0
#
0
#
S
#
4
'
(
!
(
!
RCLE
AK CI
UNIM
ER
R
4
'
(
!
(
!
·
#
#
*'
4
·
#
LE
IR
4
'
NORTHWESTERN CIRCLE
4
'
T DOCK STREET
(
!
(
!
·
#
0
#
C FLOAT
X FLOAT
·
#
(
!
·
#
LATOUCHE
CIRCLE
G FLOAT
(
!
'#
4
*
(
!
(
!
P IA
YM
OL
(
!
1,000
Feet
SEA LION AVENUE
NORTH STAR
CIRCLE
500
(
!
0
#
AIRPO RT ROAD
(
!
(
!
(
!
!
(
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
!
(
(
!
E
(
!
!
(
(
!
!
(
(
!
RIV
·
#
0
·
#
(
!
(
!
( !
!
(
!!
(
(
(
!
LE
ED
·
#
(
!
(
!
·
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
D
AD
OA
R
RO
(
!
·
#
(
!
S
"
(
!
(
(!
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
4
'
!
(
(
!
(
!
(
!
IRON DRIVE
·
#
#
*
4
'
(
!
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
(
·
#!
JE
SS
E
'!
4
(
(!
!
(
0
#
#
*
·
#
·
#
(
!
/
"
0
#
0
#
(
!
(
!
ROAD
RT ROAD
AIRPO
AIRPORT
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
/
"
RC LE
AK CI
UNIM
IA
IA
MPP
YYM
O
OLL
(
!
(
!
LION AVENUE
SEA·
#
·
#
·
#
GREAT BEAR
CIRCLE
·
#
(
!
(
!
/
"
ALICE DRIVE
(
!
(
!
!
(
( !
!
(
(
!
·
#
(
!
*
/
"
·
##
(
!
·
#
(
!
#
*
(
!
(
!
"
/
0
#
SWETMANN AVENUE
(
!
(
!
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
PHOENIX ROAD
(
!
HW
AY
(
!
DIMOND
BOULEVARD
DIMOND BOULEVARD
(
!
!·
(
#
0
#
(
!
(
!
HIG
(
!
(
!
( !
!
(
(
!
SE
WA
RD
·
#
(
!
·
#
(
!
±
(
!
(
!
0
#
(
!
ET
(
!
·
#
(
!
A
ST
RE
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
RA
VIN
(
!
(
!
A AVENUE
TA
(
!
(
!
/
"
0
#
0
#
(
!
HE M
LOC
K AV
ENU
E
U
%
W E L L 6
(
!
(
!
·
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
0
#
S
#
(
!
(
!
S
TR
E
ET
0
#
0
#
Railroad
(
!
R
DE
AL
0
#
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
BI
R
C
H
0 T
#
E
RE
ST
0
#
0
#
0
#
(
!
( !
!
(
#
! ·
(
/
"
·
#
(
!
(HEMLOCK
!
AVENUE
/
"
(
!
Storm Drain
(
!
(
!
4
'
HEMLOCK AVENUE
Drain Endpoint
0
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
r
0
#
0
#
S
#
Seward Fish Outfall
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
Sewer Line
ELM STREET
(
!
#
0
"
)
S
#
(
!
EE
T
STREET
ELM
ELM STREET
·
#
·
#
·
#
AFOGNAK
AVENUE
AFOGNAK AVENUE
(
!
/
"
(
!
4
'
PINE
STREET
PINE STREET
·
#
#
*
/
"
(
!
·
#
CH
(
!
4
'
(
!
BIR
(T
EE!
R!
(
ST
(
!
Ball Field
4
'
·
#
·
##
*
(
!
(
!
COTTONWOOD STREET
Parcels
4 '
'
4
4
'
4
'
/
"
(
!
·
#
ER
LD
A!
(
#
*
·
#
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
CEDAR
CEDAR STREET
STREET
(
!
Seward
Sewer System
1,000
Feet
(
!
MAPLE
STREET
MAPLE STREET
(
!
(
!
!
(
SP
SPRU
RUCE
CE ST
STRE
REET
ET
#
* '
#
4·
/ 4 '
"
(
!
EVERGREEN
EVERGREEN STREET
STREET
(
!
(
!
OAK
STREET
OAK STREET
Transmission Line
·
#
(
!
500
(
!
Wood Lightpole
#
*
2,000
Map Components
(
!
Utility Pole
1,000
Feet
(
!
(
(!
!
·
#
(
( !
!
(
!
·
#
±
Feet
S
"
'
4
/
"
·
#
#
*
#
*
·
#
(
!
!
(
(
!
·
#
0
(
!
(
!
·
#
0
#
2,000
(
!
S
#
·
#
(
!
·
#
·
#
0
#
S
"
·
#
·
#
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
(
!
·
#
1,000
U
%
0
#
0
#
0
#
S
#
( !
!
(
( !
!
(
4
'
(
!
0
(
!
·
#
#
*
*
#
S
"
S
"
0
#
#
0
0
0#
#
0
#
#
*
/
"
·
#
4
'
(
!
·
#
*
#
S
"
S
"
/
*
#
!
(
(
!
·
#
(
!
·
# !
(
(
!
·
#
·
#
/
"
4
'
/
"
·
#
#
*
"
/
(
!
4
'
·
#
(
!
(
!!
(
(
!
·
#
4
'
/
S
"
) "
"
*
#
#
*
/
"
·
#
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
*
( #
!
/
"
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
4#
'
·
4
'
"
S
*
#
4
'
(
!
(
!
±
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
(
!
*'
·'
#
4 '
4 '
4#
4 '
4
'
4
·
#
4
'
#
*
/
"
·
#
·
#
/
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
S
"
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
*
#
#
*
(
!
S
"
(
!
(
!
·
#
4
'
#
*
4
'
±
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
(
!
4
'
4
'
!
(
4
'
·
#
·
#
(
!
(
!
'
4
#
*
(
!
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
·
#
/
"
4
'
(
!
#
*
4·
'
#
#"
*
/
S
"
(
!
(
!
4
'
#
*
(
!
(
!
(
!
4!
'
(
(
!
4
'
4
'
4
'
(
!
4
'
·
#'
4
4
'
4
'
(
!
4
'
4
'
#
*
4
'
·
#
(
!
·
#
FREIGHT DOCK ROAD
4
'
4
'
SPRUCE
STRE ET
4
'
#
*
0
#
(
!
(
!
(
!
DIMOND BOULEVARD
4
'
)
"
0
#
(
!
(
!
4
'
4
'
#
*
(
!
(
!
!
(
#
*
(
!
DH
IG
HW
AY
(
!
(
!
!
(
(
!
#
*
4
'
SE
WA
R
#
'*
4
4
'
·
#
4
'
ALAMEDA STREET
4
'
4
'
(
!
(
!
(
!
#
*
4
'
4
'
X-FLOAT ROAD
4
'
/
"
/
"
·
#
4
'
EVERGREEN STREET
·
#
/
"
·
#
4
'
4
'
CEDAR STREET
4
'
#
*
*
#
/
"
MAPLE STREET
4
'
(
!
·
#
#
* '
4
OAK STREET
4
'
PINE STREET
4
'
AFOGNAK AVENUE
·
#
·
#
'#
4
*
VISTA
AVENUE
VISTA AVENUE
(
!
r