June 25, 2012
Monday

As I was driving around town recently I decided to keep driving for a while to try and find a few of the good stretches of road system we have to be proud of. I came to several conclusions.

Ketchikan is far more suited for concrete rather than the sub par ten year paving we continually accept bid offers on and here are a few instances and reasons to take into account.

First look at the original Schoenbar bypass. 25 years ago that was constructed of concrete and although we don't put down chemicals or slam it with the graders and plow trucks the condition of the surface is overall fantastic. It has expansion joints built in so if there were a need to remove a panel it could simply be replaced. This is the way it should be.

Park Avenue near the Cape Fox lot is also another testament to longevity. It may not be the most sightly road on the planet and it has some issues but because of the concrete and rock construction they remain localized. I have no idea how old it is but it too has been in place for a VERY long time.

So I ask of the City Council of Ketchikan, are we in this for the quick nickel or the long dime? Why NOT spend a few extra dollars today to save millions of constant patching with the bucket and torch method that lasts a month.        

Bill Meck
Ketchikan, AK

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