Recreational Boating Access Projects
Southcentral Projects
Hyder, Alaska
Description
Hyder is located at the headwaters of Portland Canal on the U.S./Canada border. Hyder is the only town in Southern Southeast Alaska that is road accessible from the continental United States and Canada. The original ramp was only about 12 feet wide and in terrible condition, with many concrete slabs having exposed rebar. The top 50 feet of this ramp was only loose gravel, which caused problems for anyone without a four wheel drive vehicle. The existing parking area was still in good condition and of adequate size, so it was decide to put all of the effort into the ramp itself.
Location
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Purpose
The purpose of this project was simply to replace and lengthen the old existing ramp with a new full size ramp to allow recreational boaters safe access to the marine waters in the Hyder area.
Outcome
Construction went very smooth and the project was completed in the summer of 2003. Although the ramp was extended, the large natural tidal flats in Hyder still do not allow launching below about a -1 foot low tide. The new improvements have definitely made launching at this facility much safer, vehicle friendly, and over all a much more enjoyable experience. Operation and maintenance of this facility is covered by the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities.