This action honors Alan Anderson, the founder of the Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team and who his more than two decades of service to youth and the community. The resolution recognizes Anderson’s outstanding volunteer leadership since founding the program in 2002. What began as a small grassroots effort has grown into a nationally and internationally recognized youth paddling organization.
“Alan Anderson represents the very best of Gig Harbor: dedication, mentorship, and a deep belief in the potential of our young people,” said Mayor Mary Barber. “Naming the boathouse in his honor is a lasting way to recognize the decades he has spent building confidence, character, and opportunity on our waterfront. The impact of his work continues to have ripple effect throughout our community.”
Under Anderson’s leadership, athletes have competed at the highest levels of the sport, including pathways to world-level competition and the Olympic Games. Beyond competitive success, his work emphasized resilience, sportsmanship, water safety and lifelong connections, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for youth and families.
Anderson also played a key role in advocating for and supporting the construction of a permanent boat storage facility at Ancich Park, partnering with Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team leadership and the city through fundraising and long-term planning efforts.
The naming request was strongly supported by the parks commission, which unanimously recommended approval, and by the city council following discussion at a January study session. The boat storage building did not previously have a name and meets the city’s policy criteria for honoring individuals who have made unusually outstanding public service contributions.
More information about a future dedication event at the boathouse will be shared at a later date.