Ketchikan: 'Historic Ketchikan' says warehouse can be saved
A historic warehouse next to Ketchikan Creek could be restored to serve as retail space in conjunction with a proposed new tourist walkway along the creek.
Dave Kiffer, executive director of Historic Ketchikan, presented a report to the Ketchikan City Council on the water warehouse building, also known as "The Woodshop," which includes a small storefront facing Park Avenue.
According to the report, "There are numerous problems with the building and its supporting structure which will require a considerable expense ... to repair correctly."
However, the building could be saved if the city - which owns the structure - takes steps to keep if from collapsing into the creek.
A few items the council needs to consider, according to the report, are the future of the building's parking deck, which is "mostly beyond salvage;" replacement of the log cribbing under the building; repair of the retaining wall, which is bulging outward; and demolition of a historically insignificant addition to the building.
If the addition were demolished, the city could reconstruct the deck below that space, providing a good view of Ketchikan Creek for visitors and local residents.
"The deck could be connected to a proposed walking path and public way constructed on the side of the creek with access to Married Man's Trail to form a complete system between the public library and Cape Fox Lodge," the report states. "Public seating, landscaping, public toilets and vending booths could be placed on the deck as a rest stop on the Historic Walking Tour, used extensively during the summer season."
The water warehouse building could then be developed as retail space for a series of small shops facing the deck. That would provide lease income for the city, the report states, which could help pay for the restoration costs.
The building is historically significant, according to Historic Ketchikan. It was built in 1912 as a warehouse for Citizen's Light, Power and Water, which eventually became Ketchikan Public Utilities. The warehouse is the oldest commercial building in Ketchikan, according to Historic Ketchikan, and is one of the few that has retained most of its traditional nature.
Kiffer told the City Council that a cost estimate to restore the building might be ready by January.
Council Member Jim Wingren suggested that the council discuss the issue during its January meeting.