- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
KETCHIKAN, ALASKA – Alaska Port Innovations, LLC (API) is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of the Port of Ward Cove and the historic Ketchikan Pulp Mill properties from Ward Cove Group LLC. This strategic investment serves to advance the goals of economic revitalization for the site and to promote sustainable industry growth throughout the Southeast Alaska region.
At the heart of our mission is the transformation of the Greater Ward Cove area into a dynamic community hub for innovative commercial and recreational development. Our focus is to provide lasting benefits to both locals and visitors by establishing the Port of Ward Cove as a catalyst for vision and ingenuity. The site will serve as a platform and incubator to empower locals in shaping the future of commerce, culture, and quality of life in Ketchikan.
API consists of dedicated and experienced locals who are committed to the hard work of fulfilling this ambitious vision for the Port of Ward Cove, including: Kyle Quinn, Stephen Bradford, Trevor Shaw, Jaimie Palmer, Tim Lewis, and Bethany Lickfield of Ketchikan AdventureVue.
As API begins its work, we look forward to welcoming local individuals, businesses, and organizations to join us on site as strategic partners, tenants, vendors, and collaborators. In fostering these meaningful relationships, we aim to create a unified effort supported by the unique talents and resources of our whole community.
This acquisition represents a monumental step forward for the future of Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska,
“This acquisition represents a monumental step forward for the future of Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska,” said Kyle Quinn, CEO of Alaska Port Innovations. “Our vision is to create a vibrant hub that fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth. This will ensure the Ward Cove area thrives as a cornerstone of the local economy and a beacon of opportunity for generations to come. Together, we can create a shared vision of success and embrace a brighter future.”
API is committed to creating an inclusive environment where cooperation and creativity flourish, guaranteeing that the development of Ward Cove benefits everyone in the Ketchikan area.
Port of Ward Cove History
The Port of Ward Cove is located on the properties of the former Ketchikan Pulp Mill, which consists of nearly 350 acres of land and tidelands. The mill operated from 1954 to 1997 and was the longest operating pulp mill in Alaskan history. In the years after the closure of the mill, the site became an asset of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough before being sold in 2011 to Dave and Andrew Spokely and their company Power Systems & Supplies of Alaska.
With the intent of repurposing the site as a thriving port and center of commerce, the Spokely family formed a partnership with the Binkley family of Fairbanks to construct and operate the first cruise ship pier in Ward Cove. The Ward Cove Dock Group pier opened at the Port of Ward Cove and received its first cruise ship in August 2021. Moving forward, it is anticipated that more than 400,000 passengers will arrive annually in the Port of Ward Cove.
Leadership Biographies
Kyle Quinn, Chief Executive Officer – Mr. Quinn was born and raised in Ketchikan, Alaska. A successful entrepreneur, he has established or acquired numerous thriving businesses in the community. He is the CEO of Alaska Pest Management, Computer Headquarters, Bold Design Group, and Omni Solutions. Additionally, he serves as a pastor at Lighthouse Church.
Trevor Shaw, Executive Chairman – Raised in Ketchikan, Mr. Shaw has been significantly involved in the private and public sector locally. Having served as both an elected and appointed public official, he holds the distinction of being the youngest person ever elected to public office in the State of Alaska. He has started or managed numerous small businesses in the community and serves as President of the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce.
Stephen Bradford, Partner – Mr. Bradford has been thoroughly active in the community since first moving to town to become the Attorney for the City of Ketchikan. After leaving city employment, he started a private law firm. A former elected official, he has served at various times as a School Board Member, Borough Assemblyman, Vice Mayor, and School Board President. In dedication to local non-profits, he has served as a Board member of many organizations over the years, including as the current Chairman of the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau.
Jaimie Palmer, Partner – Mrs. Palmer has been dedicated to the community of Ketchikan and its residents from the moment she arrived. A strong believer in Ketchikan’s entrepreneurial spirit, she has started multiple businesses. In her professional career, she rose to become the Vice President of Product Development and Guest Experience at Allen Marine. With a familial dedication to public service, she has also been elected and serves as a two-term member of the Ketchikan Borough Assembly.
Tim Lewis, Partner – After a career as a successful restaurateur in the Lower 48, Mr. Lewis moved his family to Ketchikan to assume the role of General Manager at Cape Fox Lodge. He agreed to lead the expansion of commercial business operations and activities offered by Cape Fox, culminating with his service as the President of the Cape Fox Commercial Group.
API News & Updates
Further news and updates about the progress and initiatives of Alaska Port Innovations and the Port of Ward Cove will be made available on our official website at portofwardcove.com. We encourage members of the community and stakeholders to regularly check the site for the latest updates and to explore how they can participate in the shared vision for the Greater Ward Cove area.
