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Skagway approves up to $350,000 for rockslide-mitigation design; public raises environmental concerns
Summary
The assembly awarded a Phase 1 CMGC services contract to Granite Construction with a $350,000 not-to-exceed amount for rockslide mitigation. Public commenters voiced concern about proposed access that could create a permanent road to Lower Lake; staff said the contractor will advise the design team and decisions about access remain subject to public review.
The assembly voted to award Phase 1 rockslide‑mitigation construction-manager/general-contractor (CMGC) services to Granite Construction with a contract amount not to exceed $350,000. Finance reported five responsive proposals and recommended the Alaska-based contractor as the top scorer; assembly approved the award on a 5–0 roll call.
During public comment a resident urged caution about plans that could require building an 18‑foot road to Lower Lake, arguing any permanent road would change access patterns and open the area to more tour traffic. The resident asked whether alternatives — including airlift options — had been fully considered.
Manager Deach and committee members explained that Phase 1 work is advisory: the selected CMGC firm will assist the design team and advise on constructability, not unilaterally decide the scope. Deach said project funding includes BRIC (Federal Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities) funds for design and that the project will include public milestones so the assembly can say no before construction proceeds.
Assemblymember Hanson, who served on the scoring committee, said the chosen contractor had strong relevant experience and that the scoring team unanimously ranked the firm highest. Members acknowledged the work will have environmental and visual impacts near Lower Lake but argued that a careful design and public oversight can limit harm.
Ending: The assembly authorized phase‑1 CMGC services up to $350,000; the manager said ensuing design work will include public input and assembly checkpoints before committing to construction access or a road to Lower Lake.
