2012: Fix it First
Governor Parnell has expressed support for six large-scale transportation projects across Alaska that would threaten fisheries and wildlife across the state, use public money to benefit corporate special interests, and not provide value to Alaskans. Transportation funding must be prioritized to maintain and improve existing infrastructure throughout the state – infrastructure that benefits our communities and families.
Roads and other basic infrastructure are critical to our daily lives. We use roads to get to work, go to the grocery store, and visit family and friends across Alaska. Ferries provide access to coastal communities. Airports, small and large, are a critical part of daily life for many Alaskans. We must maintain and improve existing infrastructure, particularly dangerous roadways, and invest our limited transportation dollars in projects that benefit our communities. The state should be expanding transit opportunities for projects that benefit people, rather than spending millions to subsidize corporate interests.
The six large-scale transportation projects we are watching closely include:
- Port MacKenzie rail extension
The full costs of these projects have often been underestimated, and the benefits to people overstated. It isn’t clear how Alaskans benefit as a whole from each project, particularly when the state has a backlog of maintenance on existing bridges and highway resurfacing. Money slated for these huge projects should be redirected into current systems that have a track record of use and success, like the Alaska Marine Highway System and public transportation.
The Alliance will work to direct transportation funding to our communities. Big corporations making record profits don’t need handouts from Alaska.
For more information, contact Dave Theriault at 907-723-9944.
Additional Resources:
Road to Umiat: Hundreds of Millions- and for what?
Parnell announces budget actions on resource access projects
