(Juneau) - Representative Mark Neuman (R-Mat-Su) has been named co-chair of the House Special Committee on Economic Development, Trade and Tourism. Representative Neuman will serve as co chair with Representative Jay Ramras (R-Fairbanks).

The Committee focuses on issues relating to the state's efforts to encourage economic development, promote trade and support tourism.

"I am pleased to be leading this Committee in the House. Its an exciting time in Alaska's history and we have the opportunity to increase our global presence through a new natural gas pipeline, stimulate our economic base in the Valley with the prospect of a new Knik Arm crossing and increase tourism with the lower 48 and the Pacific Rim," said Representative Neuman.

He went on to say, "I look forward to holding hearings on the proposed Knik Arm bridge issue in the near future. We have opportunities ahead of us to improve the state's infrastructure and encourage economic development. I think the bridge could mean many new jobs and development for the interior."

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