NOTN- Juneau officials are preparing to partner with the U.S. Coast Guard to help meet housing needs tied to the planned 2029 arrival of the icebreaker Storis.
Deputy Mayor Greg Smith said the Coast Guard has identified a deficit of 71 housing units for personnel.
“Juneau needs over 1000 units, if not closer to 1500 just for our population. But knowing that, making this a successful home port for the Storis is a tremendous need and priority for us.” Said Smith.
On Monday, the Assembly authorized the city manager to work with the Coast Guard on a memorandum of understanding, which is a formal document outlining the intent of two or more parties to cooperate on a project or transaction, and to consider city-owned property for potential development.
“The Coast Guard is going to put out a request for information, and ask local developers, We need this much housing, what could you offer? what can you provide to help fill this need?” Smith Said, “Our city manager said we also have some property that could go and potentially help address this need as well. She identified Pederson Hill as well as Telephone Hill as city owned land that could be used. It’s not simply for Coast Guard housing.”
The Coast Guard is expected to issue a request for information to local developers outlining housing needs. Smith said demonstrating city support is critical to ensuring the Storis is successfully homeported in Juneau and not relocated elsewhere.
