Ketchikan’s public works department has released the results of a recent city restroom survey. The survey sought public input on the construction of a new public restroom on Creek Street, which could begin at the end of the summer.
Feedback from the more than 200 residents, visitors and business owners was mixed. Concerns among those who filled out the survey included maintenance costs, congestion on the boardwalk and how a restroom will match the historic aesthetics of Creek Street. Several survey takers suggested alternative locations for a new public restroom, like Stedman Street and Thomas Basin.
Nearly half of those who filled out the survey said the new restroom should have 3-5 stalls. Many also feel the restrooms should be separated by gender. Nearly 40% of those who participated in the survey feel the new restroom should be open year-round.
The need for more public restrooms in downtown Ketchikan has been a talking point at city council and borough assembly meetings for over five years. There are currently six public restrooms in the downtown area, most of which are only open in the summer months. Construction of the new restroom will be paid for by commercial passenger vessel funds from both the city and borough. Those are funds collected from cruise ship passengers that can only be used for projects that benefit the tourism industry. The restrooms could cost upwards of about $1 million to build.
If constructed, the new restroom will likely be located between Dolly’s House and Niblick’s General Store on Creek Street. The restroom survey results will be reviewed by local historic organizations, who need to approve the location before construction moves forward.
Hunter Morrison is a Report for America corps member for KRBD. Your donation to match our RFA grant helps keep him writing stories like this one. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution.
