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Session: State Capitol, Room 406 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-3783 Fax: (907) 465-2293 Send E-Mail |
For Immediate Release: Feburary 21, 2000
Contact: Representative Lisa Murkowski at (907) 465-3783.
Juneau -- Legislation introduced by Representative Lisa Murkowski authorizes the Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC) to enter into several land-exchange agreements that will enable an upgrade and realignment of railroad track.
HB 362 will allow the ARRC to improve safety and efficiency of its operations by upgrading and realigning its track to reduce 70 sharp curves between Anchorage and Wasilla. "This project will lessen the risk of train derailments by eliminating dangerous curves, and it will reduce the running time between Anchorage and Wasilla from 95 minutes to 53 minutes" notes Murkowski. This will make rail commuter service between Mat-Su and Anchorage a viable transportation alternative.
HB 362 authorizes the ARRC to exchange land with the Department of the Army, Department of the Air Force, Municipality of Anchorage, Eklutna Inc., Chugach Alaska Corporation, and certain landowners between mileposts 133 and 134. Construction costs for the improvements are estimated at $45 to $50 million and will be financed using a combination of federal funds and ARRC operating revenues. The legislation also authorizes a land exchange at Mile 14 on the Seward Highway to allow the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities to proceed with a highway improvement project.
Representative Murkowski noted several advantages associated with the realignment project: "Straighter track allows safer operations because of less track and equipment wear, consistency in train handling, greater sight distance, and reduced maintenance requirements. Train gridlock will be reduced, and more jobs for Alaskans will be created through construction and additional freight and passenger service. More importantly for the communities neighboring the railroad tracks, this project includes upgrades to vehicle crossings and public access amenities that will enhance safety."
The proposed track realignment and improvement between Anchorage and Wasilla is supported by the Alaska Visitors Association, Palmer Chamber of Commerce, Wasilla Chamber of Commerce, Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau, City of Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation.