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The objective of this project is to replace the stairs from the parking area at Refuge Cove, leading to the beach. Refuge Cove is part of the Alaska State Parks system and a highly frequented public beach area. The current stairs are eroding along the embankment. The stairs are currently carved out of the bank and separated by logs. Aaron Ostby of Alaska State Parks estimates they will become unusable/unsafe within the next 24 months. The parks service is watching the erosion very closely due to safety concerns and will cut off access if necessary.
First City Rotary will complete the stairs in a safe and sound manner that will include a cement landing (base) and stairs constructed of treated wood, cement, or galvanized metal treads depending upon the final design and cost. We will use the majority of the funds to purchase materials for the project, a portion of the funds will be used for removal of the old stairs as well as pay a contractor to pour concrete for the base of the new stairs.
First City Rotary has licensed contractors in the club that will oversee the project and provide skilled labor. We also have several volunteers willing to provide hands-on assistance as well. A civil engineer from Rotary 2000 has offered to assist with the design of the project.
This project will serve families living in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. The Refuge Cove recreation site is a popular picnic and beach area that is free and open to the public year round. Families of all economic backgrounds have access to the site. The eroding stairs are becoming a safety hazard. This project will provide safe access from the parking area.
First City Rotary will also ensure that we publicize the project. We will use Facebook to show progress on the project as it develops, posting pictures and updates regularly. We will also invite the local newspaper to do an article showcasing the project and have a dedication ceremony upon completion. Additionally we will seek space to post a permanent sign identifying the stairs as a First City Rotary project.
The replacement of these stairs will be a great community project that will provide families safe access at this popular recreational site.
We anticipate that the project will be completed no later than October 1, 2018.
Addendum to Project Description (added after the project was signed)
We would like to ask for an additional $3,000 for our project described above. Where the stairs would land is an area where logs float up and could obstruct the bottom of the stairs. With additional funds would be able to include a concrete bulkhead that could keep the logs from the stairs and also provide an area to sit at the base of the stairs. Additionally we would like to include a fire pit if sufficient funds were available.
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