The Palmer Platform project will provide an elevated, ADA-accessible viewing structure overlooking the Knik Glacier, the Palmer Municipal Airport, Arboretum, and Chugach mountain range. Located near the town's arboretum and public trail system, the site offers a unique opportunity to enhance the community's recreational and educational infrastructure. While the glacier is visible from ground level, a modest 10-15 foot elevation gain would dramatically improve the panoramic view, by creating a viewpoint of the Knik Glacier and create a more striking and immersive experience for residents and visitors alike. The area is already frequented by hikers, families, and school groups, but currently lacks any accessible vantage point from which to take in the full scenic beauty.
The Palmer Rotary Club is leading this effort in collaboration with the City of Palmer and other partners, with a focus on universal access, community pride, cultural and environmental appreciation. The structure will feature a permanent ADA-compliant ramp in a spiral design, blending function with aesthetic appeal. Planning and design will take place throughout 2025, with construction scheduled to begin in spring of 2026. Once completed, the Palmer Platform will serve as a destination for all ages and abilities, reinforcing Rotary's commitment to service, inclusion, and local impact.
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