The official community unveiling of Alaska’s first Freedom Rock memorial to veterans has been deferred until spring, primarily due to manufacturing lead times for a shelter and incoming winter weather.
Organizers had intended to install the monument this fall at City Park. However, Kate Thomas, the borough’s economic development director, said the borough chose to hold off on the move and keep the painted six-foot boulder in storage rather than risk exposing the finished artwork to the elements.
She explained that preferred suppliers require an 8- to 14-week window to deliver the open-sided shelter. That delivery time frame, combined with seasonal weather, made it impossible to build the structure in time to beat winter.
“Obviously, we’ve invested in that piece of art,” she said. “It is a meaningful project for the community, and it made sense to wait till spring so that it’s also just not sitting out in the elements unnecessarily.”
Thomas said officials also acquired a protective sealant compatible with the artist’s paint collection to further safeguard the piece, which has not yet been applied.
Officials are finalizing pavilion options and accepting sponsorships and donations to help fund the structure.
Iowa artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II completed the memorial painting in August at the Marine Service Center, where the six-foot boulder remains securely stored.
Crews have already poured a concrete foundation at City Park. Thomas said officials are now aiming for an unveiling ceremony in April or early May.
The borough so far has paid the entire cost of Sorensen’s $13,500 contract, plus supplies and travel.
