Alaska is the 49th state of the U.S.. Known as The Last Frontier, Alaska is the largest State in terms of area, but not population. According to the Census, in 2023, the state has 144 incorporated cities (census.gov) and is also known for its robust tourism industry, vast wilderness, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
Curating great public spaces in Alaska can offer residents and visitors alike opportunities to enjoy the state’s stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Here’s a list of Alaska’s existing spaces and suggestions for enhancing and/or creating new ones:
- Anchorage Coastal Trail Extension
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage is a scenic 11-mile path along the coast, popular for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing. The trail could be enhanced by extending the trail to cover more of Anchorage’s coastline, adding viewpoints, rest areas, and informational plaques about local wildlife and history. - Denali National Park Visitor Center Revamp
Denali National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, with the visitor center offering educational exhibits and ranger programs.
Enhancing the visitor center with more interactive exhibits, virtual reality experiences, and educational programs highlighting the park’s ecosystem and Indigenous cultures will give visitors a better experience. - Juneau Waterfront Development
Juneau’s waterfront is a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Gastineau Channel and mountains.
This could further be developed with a mix of recreational areas, public art installations, and outdoor dining spaces, creating a vibrant hub for community gatherings and tourism. - Fairbanks Riverfront Park
Fairbanks boasts several riverfront areas along the Chena River, ideal for walking, fishing, and picnicking.
The Park could be transformed into a year-round park with walking trails, ice skating paths in winter, a summer concert stage, and riverside cafes. - Ketchikan Rainforest Boardwalk
Ketchikan’s Creek Street is a historic boardwalk with charming shops and a glimpse into the city’s past.
Constructing a boardwalk through the Tongass National Forest, providing accessible paths for all ages and abilities, with educational stops to learn about the rainforest’s flora and fauna will enhance the public space. - Sitka Seaside Park
Sitka National Historical Park offers trails through beautiful coastal scenery and totem poles reflecting the area’s cultural heritage.
Creating a seaside park in Sitka with picnic areas, playgrounds, a public fishing pier, and kayaking access points, encouraging outdoor activities and community engagement will greatly enhance the space. - Nome Cultural Heritage Center
Nome is known for its rich cultural history and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which ends here.
Enhancement: Establish a center dedicated to preserving and showcasing Native Alaskan cultures, with exhibits, workshops, and performances that celebrate traditional arts, crafts, and storytelling. - Seward Harbor Promenade
Seward’s harbor is a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, bustling with boats, shops, and restaurants.
This great space could be enhanced by developing a scenic promenade along Seward’s harbor, featuring bike paths, sculpture gardens, and benches where people can enjoy the stunning fjord views. - Talkeetna Community Plaza
Talkeetna is a quirky town known for its arts scene and proximity to Denali.
Enhancement project to build a community plaza in with a farmer’s market, outdoor seating, and space for local events and festivals, fostering a strong sense of community. - Barrow Arctic Experience Park
Barrow (Utqiaġvik) offers unique Arctic experiences and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
The Park could be enhanced by creating an Arctic-themed park with igloo-shaped pavilions, educational installations about the Arctic environment, and spaces for local events and gatherings. - Valdez Waterfront Greenway
Valdez features beautiful waterfront parks with spectacular mountain and glacier views.
Enhancement of Valdez’s waterfront with a greenway that includes walking trails, bird-watching stations, picnic spots, and informational signs about the area’s history and natural beauty. - Kodiak Island Nature Reserve
Kodiak Island is famous for its rugged coastline, abundant wildlife, and fishing opportunities.
Enhancement could include designating areas on Kodiak Island as a nature reserve with hiking trails, camping facilities, and guided tours to promote eco-tourism and environmental education. - Wrangell-St. Elias Interactive Tours
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the U.S., offers stunning wilderness experiences.
The Park could use interactive, guided tours that incorporate augmented reality to showcase the park’s geology, wildlife, and human history. - Bethel Community Arts Space
Bethel is a cultural hub for the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region, with a strong Native Alaskan heritage.
Bethel could use a multi-use arts space with studios, galleries, and performance areas to support local artists and bring the community together through cultural events. - Homer Spit Public Recreation Area
Homer Spit is a popular destination for beachcombing, fishing, and enjoying ocean views.
Expanding the public facilities with additional picnic areas, playgrounds, and beach access points, creating a family-friendly recreational space.
The recommended enhancements can help Alaska build on its existing great public spaces, offering more opportunities for community engagement, tourism, and environmental education while celebrating its natural and cultural heritage.
Think-Talk 