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Engineers to return after geotechnical tests show poor soils under skate park site; roof project’s feasibility in doubt
Summary
Public works told the assembly that subsurface conditions at the borough skate-park site likely make construction of a roof cost-prohibitive. Staff will bring engineers and more details to the Feb. 24 meeting and the assembly discussed redirecting funds to other recreation priorities if the roof is abandoned.
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Public Works Department informed the assembly on Feb. 3 that geotechnical testing at the skate park site uncovered loose, deep riverine soils that complicate plans to build a permanent roof over the facility.
Morgan Berry, Public Works Director, said the soils extend about 57 feet below the structure level and are “likely riverine soils” that are unconsolidated. “If they were consolidated, then there wouldn't be as much issue… but the fact that they're loose means that some of the different technologies that could be used to put in, say, piling underneath that structure would then have to be extended much further down,” Berry said.
Why it matters: The finding raises the cost of foundation work—either driving longer piles or increasing the size and frequency of bearing members—making the roofing project more expensive than originally budgeted. Berry told the assembly the price point may not be reasonable to the borough and that staff will present more information at the Feb. 24 meeting.
Assembly questions and staff response: Assemblymembers asked whether funds already allocated for the roof could be repurposed if the roof is “axed.” Assemblymember Otis and others suggested staff should present options for alternate uses of the funds, such as other recreation projects or a rec center expansion, at the next meeting. Berry and assistant manager Doug Kearney confirmed engineers would attend the Feb. 24 meeting to provide detailed recommendations.
Technical detail: The geotechnical review found deep deposits of loose soil beneath the site—Berry cited an estimated depth of about 57 feet—and explained that loose soils would require deeper piling or heavier structural members to transfer loads to competent strata.
Next steps: Engineering consultants will be asked to return on Feb. 24 with options and cost estimates, and the assembly requested staff include alternative uses for the budgeted funds if the roof project is not feasible at an acceptable cost.
Ending: Borough staff characterized the current outlook as unfavorable for a roof at a reasonable price and will present engineers' findings and alternatives at the next assembly meeting.
