ITEM TITLE:
#25-11 - Authorizing the Valdez City Manager to Request and Pursue Federal Funding up to $4,000,000 for the Permitting and Design of New Capital Waterfront Infrastructure in the Area Identified in the Valdez Comprehensive Waterfront Master Plan as Sea Otter Park
SUBMITTED BY: Jeremy Talbott, Ports & Harbors Director
FISCAL NOTES:
Expenditure Required: N/A
Unencumbered Balance: N/A
Funding Source: No immediate fiscal impact. Federal funding, if secured, would cover permitting and design costs. Local match requirements, if applicable, will be addressed in future council actions.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve of Resolution 25-11.
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
The adopted City of Valdez Comprehensive Waterfront Master Plan outlines strategic priorities for the development and improvement of our waterfront infrastructure to meet the current and future needs of our community. The proposed projects are critical to supporting economic growth, facilitating commerce, and enhancing recreational opportunities, as well as meeting transportation and trade demands.
To advance these projects, the permitting and design phase must first be completed to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to establish detailed plans for construction. Federal funding opportunities may be available to assist with this initial phase, providing a means to secure necessary resources without creating a significant financial burden on local taxpayers. The City is seeking to pursue up to $4,000,000 in federal funding to support this effort.
Authorization of Resolution #25-11 will empower the City Manager to actively pursue federal funding opportunities for permitting and design of waterfront infrastructure projects at the area identified in the Comprehensive Waterfront Master Plan as Sea Otter Park. This project, as identified in the Valdez Comprehensive Waterfront Master Plan, include improvements to port facilities, docks, and associated infrastructure necessary for meeting economic, environmental, and operational goals.
The requested funding will allow the City to:
• Conduct necessary environmental reviews and obtain permits.
• Develop detailed designs and engineering plans.
• Enhance competitiveness for future construction funding by completing advanced project planning.
By pursuing federal funding, completing design, and permitting, the City will be better positioned to align with national and state infrastructure priorities, including support for trade, economic resiliency, national defense, and climate adaptation. This resolution is a critical step toward ensuring the timely advancement of these vital projects.