Categories:

Last week I addressed the annual conference of the Alaska Association of Harbormasters & Port Directors in Wrangell.  This is a great group of folks and I always enjoy discussing our mutual interest in the coastal infrastructure so vital to our state.

Alaska’s harbors play a critical role in this state’s economy and our quality of life.  In coastal Alaska,  commerce is principally conducted via marine transportation and these community harbors are our roads.

During my time in the legislature I’ve worked to ensure Alaska understands the importance of our harbor network.  Working with local harbormasters and colleagues in Juneau we implemented the municipal harbor grant program that advanced local ownership of harbors.  During the past several years the legislature has led the way on this issue by appropriating over $50 million to help revitalize our harbors.  Going forward, harbormasters have identified nearly $100 million in future port and harbor maintenance statewide.  I will continue to work with local leaders on improving our state’s marine infrastructure.

I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with local leaders on these issues.  I’d like to thank Steve Corporon and the association for their invitation, and also recognize Wrangell Mayor Jeremy Maxand and Harbormaster Greg Meissner for organizing a great conference.

Comments are closed