The Toksook Bay Tribe has received more than $10 million to construct trails to the nearby community of Nightmute, and along the coast to the fishing grounds at Umkumiut, an important subsistence location.
Transportation
A bagpipe dirge for the ferry Taku’s last day in Ketchikan
Ketchikan bagpiper Rob Alley played a send-off for the 55-year-old ferry Taku on her last day docked at Ketchikan’s Ward Cove. Alley first arrived in Alaska aboard the Taku in 1992.
Trump tariffs could jack up boat prices
The general manager of Bay Weld Boats in Homer says he’s seen in some cases 50 to 60 percent increases the purchasing prices of aluminum as aluminum users stocked up ahead of the tariff announcement.
House passes fast-track bill to keep ferries and Medicaid funded through spring
The bill now goes to the Senate. It includes $45 million for Medicaid, $24 million for the ferry system and $18 million for the Department of Corrections.
Ferry reform effort gets a legislative boost
The effort to reform the Alaska Marine Highway System took a step forward Thursday. The House Transportation Committee voted to instruct staff to draft legislation that would establish a public corporation to take over the system. But it’s a long way from a done deal.
Alaska Railroad’s first black conductor celebrates unprecedented 50 years with company
Harry Ross started moving trains when he was 21. Fifty years later, he’s still transporting passengers and freight by rail across the state.
Ferry LeConte out of service through March 10
The state ferry LeConte will be tied up in Juneau for a few more days. Sailings throughout Southeast have been canceled through March 10.
Ferry LeConte down for repairs
The Juneau-based ship will miss sailings to and from Gustavus, Hoonah, Haines and Skagway.
Marine highway reform bills introduced in state House
Juneau Rep. Sam Kito III has introduced legislation that’s part of a larger plan to restructure ferry funding and management. One measure would move nearly $200 million from the Alaska Permanent Fund’s earnings reserve into a ferry operations account.
Alaska SB 92 would crack down on derelict boats
Senate Bill 92 would expand title and registration requirements for the tens of thousands of boats in Alaska. Supporters say better vessel tracking is key to cracking down on derelicts.