Legislature(2011 - 2012)SENATE FINANCE 532
03/15/2011 09:00 AM Senate FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB46 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 46 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
SENATE BILL NO. 46
"An Act making and amending appropriations, including
capital appropriations and other appropriations;
making appropriations to capitalize funds; and
providing for an effective date."
9:02:24 AM
Co-Chair Stedman discussed the planned review of the
governor's FY 11 capital budget. He explained the process
and the binders.
9:03:50 AM
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
MARK A. LUIKEN, COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
AND PUBLIC FACILITIES introduced himself.
LAURA BAKER, DIRECTOR, DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES detailed
the "Project Review Listing, FY 2012 Governor Amended"
(copy on file).
RN 51721
The Ward Cove Improvement- Alaska Marine Highway
System
$3,400,000
Ms. Baker informed that the $3.4 million will fund the
phase one efforts for the new warehouse and property
purchased in Ward Cove.
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the original $5 million
appropriation, which was spent on the acquisition of land
and buildings of Ward Cove.
9:07:08 AM
MIKE NEUSSL, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR MARINE OPERATIONS
ALASKA MARINE HIGHWAY SYSTEM (AMHS) responded that the
original $5 million was used for the purchase of the Ward
Cove property. This project attempted to create a
functional replacement for the Alaska ship and dry-dock
facility.
Co-Chair Stedman asked why the project was divided into
phases. Mr. Neussl replied that the project was divided
into two phases because of the existence of two separate
facilities. An uplands facility with office and warehouse
space must be moved to another facility in Ward Cove,
necessitating phase one of the item. The waterfront project
is complex and unfinished and will constitute phase two of
the project. The two-phase effort allows Alaska ship and
dry-dock to use the space vacated in phase one to begin
constructing a ship yard.
Co-Chair Stedman recalled that the original plan seemed
substantially simple. He asked about the newly introduced
complexity. Mr. Neussl agreed that the original goal was to
relocate the ship facility operations to Ward Cove. He was
unaware of the origin of the two phase plan. He pointed out
that the first phase is simple in comparison to phase two
and deduced that the complexity of the second phase might
have led to the separation.
Co-Chair Stedman acknowledged that three issues are wrapped
up in the second phase of the project. He asked how the $40
million would be split between the items.
9:10:40 AM
Ms. Baker replied that the $40 million request was an
estimate. The department was lacking refined estimates. The
road access issue was based on the curvature of the road
around the facility.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if an additional $40 million request
might be expected. Ms. Baker admitted that she did not yet
know the request for next year. Co-Chair Stedman asked if
the committee should expect a substantial request from the
Alaska Marine Highway System in the FY 13 capital budget.
Mr. Neussl responded yes.
9:11:36 AM
Co-Chair Stedman commented on the new Alaska class ferry
with funding shortfalls. He wondered about the
prioritization of the ferry versus the mentioned project.
Mr. Neussl did not know. He stated that the project was an
important component of the Alaska Class Ferry. He stated
that it was essential to vacate the space vacated in phase
one to allow for construction. He believed that the number
one priority was to vacate the uplands facility.
Senator Olson asked what would happen if the project was
not funded this year. Mr. Neussl responded that a delay
would postpone the construction project, which requires
funding. Lack of funding would mean a one year delay in the
construction of the project.
Senator Egan expressed confusion about the location of the
proposed project. Mr. Neussl replied that the main ferry
terminal was located in downtown Ketchikan and would remain
so. The Ward Cove facility serves the essential purpose of
laying the ships up during the winter at the facility
located near the Alaska Ship and Dry-dock. The move to Ward
Cove and the building of a lay-up and overflow facility was
intended to free up the space at south berth to allow
Alaska Ship and Dry-dock to expand under the Alaska
Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA)
agreement.
Co-Chair Stedman clarified that south berth was previously
part of the facility until AMHS took over the area. He
commented that the shipyard is under new management and now
requires the facility.
9:15:27 AM
Senator Thomas commented on the square footage of the two
different units. Mr. Neussl corrected the information
presented stating that the measurements were typographical
errors.
Senator Thomas asked for an estimate of the total cost of
the buildings. He wondered about property acquisition. Mr.
Neussl responded that the property acquisition had been
addressed with the initial $5 million. He added that the
$3.4 million request is to retrofit an industrial facility
for office space as well as climate controlled, and non-
climate controlled warehouses.
Senator Thomas asked about the estimated refurbishment cost
per square foot. Mr. Neussl offered to respond to the
committee.
9:17:29 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman asked about the criteria utilized to fund
the project with AIDA funds as opposed to general funds.
Ms. Baker responded that the revenue source was identified
by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The source
was proposed to fund the Ward Cove and the Roads to
Resources projects.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked if the department had an opinion
about the proposed revenue source. Ms. Baker responded no.
Co-Chair Stedman noted that the new office building is not
weighted equally with the Alaska Class Ferry. He stated
that he would weigh the Alaska Class Ferry higher than he
would the new office building. He stated that the potential
$60 request for the Alaska Class Ferry would be prioritized
above the new office building. He asked the administration
to justify the Ward Cove request.
9:19:41 AM
Senator McGuire asked about potential site contamination at
the Ward Cove site. She wondered if the department would
look to the finance committee for reimbursement for the
potential clean-up fees. Mr. Neussl did not believe that
contamination existed at the Ward Cove site. He stated that
the portion of Ward Cove was chosen because of known
contamination in an area further south.
Senator Egan agreed with Co-Chair Stedman regarding the
prioritization of projects. He offered the Juneau
facilities a docking space for work in the winter.
Co-Chair Stedman agreed that the project must be
prioritized. He requested a timeline regarding the funding
spent on the Alaska Class Ferry.
9:23:08 AM
Ms. Baker offered to follow up on the issue.
Senator Olson asked about RN 50767 and the rural airport
emergency medical evacuation lights. He read the comment in
the committee backup stating that over 50 rural airports
are without operable permanent airport lights. He wondered
if private airports were included in the findings. Co-Chair
Stedman stated that the committee would address the
projects in the order presented. Ms. Baker referenced the
next project on the list.
RN 50745
Alaska Marine Highway System: Vessel and Terminal
Overhaul and Rehabilitation
$8 million
Ms. Baker explained that the request was annual in nature.
The funding would provide the annual maintenance and
overhaul at the terminals and address any system failures
on the vessels. Co-Chair Stedman asked if the necessary
amount was $10.8 million as opposed to the previously
mentioned $8 million.
Ms. Baker responded that AMHS receives the majority of the
fuel trigger funding that comes to DOT/PF. She stated that
this was the third year for an estimated surplus in fuel
trigger allocated to the program. Early estimates
established a $4 million surplus in the fuel trigger for
this year, which has been since reappropriated to cover the
supplemental request for the FY 11 vessel and terminal
overhaul and rehabilitation. The legislature passed an $8
million vessel overhaul and terminal rehabilitation
appropriation. The department returned for supplemental
requests last year. She anticipated a similar supplemental
need this year. Co-Chair Stedman asked about the
anticipated total request. Ms. Baker stated that $10
million would cover the costs reflected in the write-up.
She added that FY 11 requires $4 million to meet the vessel
overhaul. He concluded that FY 11 requires $12 million.
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the fuel trigger and last
year's reappropriation of $4 million. Ms. Baker replied
that last year's $4 million reappropriation funded the
Aleutian Chain ferry run for 2010 and 2011. She noted
additional funding that carried forward into the Marine
Highway System Fund. The year prior, an estimated $8.9
million of excess fuel trigger was placed into a special
account in the Alaska Highway System Fund. She added that
the department was close to a balance between the cost of
fuel and fuel trigger mechanism funding.
9:28:27 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the upcoming FY 13
appropriation and the escalation between the various years.
Ms. Baker responded that a study was included in the $17
million request for ferry replacement and engine work.
Co-Chair Stedman asked which study was referred to. Ms.
Baker replied the study on the Tustumena. Mr. Neussl
clarified that the study reflected data required to replace
the Tustumena.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if he could see the study. Ms. Baker
stated that the department would provide a response to the
committee.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that he did not want to spend an
additional $100 thousand to conduct a duplicate study.
9:30:33 AM
Mr. Neussl informed about an upcoming meeting with the
contractor who conducted the study.
Co-Chair Stedman stated his concern that the study would be
"whitewashed" prior to its release. He did not expect good
results. He wanted the information "shot straight." He
stressed that he did not anticipate a rosy scenario, but
wanted accurate information from the study. Mr. Neussl
responded that he read phase one of the reports. Phase two
and three recently arrived, and he planned to meet with the
contractor to discuss results. He acknowledged that the
chairman did not want a "whitewashed" report.
9:32:30 AM
RN 49780
Municipal Harbor Facility Grant Fund (AS 29.60.800)
$5 million
Ms. Baker explained that the $5 million would match $500
million from the communities for a total of $10 million in
project work.
Co-Chair Stedman thought it positive that the governor
included funding in his proposed capital budget for the
item. He voiced concern about last year's vetoes and the
governor's rejection of the $5 million last year.
Ms. Baker offered to get back to the committee with a
response.
Co-Chair Stedman noted that the committee would be studying
the municipal harbor grant process in addition to sewer,
water and school maintenance issues. He added that the
committee does not create the list. The projects are
submitted to the department from the communities, where
they are ranked, but the legislature decides the amount of
funding.
9:34:39 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman commented on the various projects listed.
He asked why the department is splitting the project.
Co-Chair Stedman clarified that the port funding was
separated by costs. He stated that if the appropriation
stands at $5 million then the first project is skipped over
and the second is completed. Ms. Baker concurred with the
chairman's assessment. He asked why Port Lions was skipped.
Ms. Baker responded that the ranking must be studied
further to answer the question. Co-Chair Stedman
acknowledged that the funding level was an arbitrary
number.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that the legislature historically
targets $10 million per year to rebuild harbors with a 50
percent match with municipalities. He asked if the
administration continued interest in appropriating $10
million per year.
9:37:17 AM
Senator Egan agreed with Co-Chair Stedman and Co-Chair
Hoffman. He believed that the list will continue to grow.
He stated that municipalities and coastal communities
received harbors for ten to twenty cents on the dollar. He
thought that the coastal communities are getting the short
end of the stick. Many of the state harbors were offered to
the communities in poor shape. The municipalities agreed to
the fifty percent matches with the inclusion of significant
funding sources from the local communities
Co-Chair Stedman expressed concern that projects would be
skipped. He preferred to follow the provided lists. He
requested further information about the agency's process.
Ms. Baker explained that the $5 million represents a
continuing funding level from the amount enacted last year.
Co-Chair Stedman recalled that an additional $5 million was
added to last year's $5 million request. He acknowledged
the substantial excess of revenue in 2011, making it
difficult to legitimize reducing the funding level from $10
million to $5 million.
9:41:50 AM
RN 46338
Infrastructure and Erosion Control Design and
Environmental Permitting
$300,000
Ms. Baker explained that the project would allow for
ongoing early project coordination with communities
affected by coastal or river erosion.
RN 50767
Statewide: Rural Airport Emergency Medical Evacuation
Lights- Battery Replacement
$46,000
Senator Olson asked about the 50 airports listed and
whether they are private airports. Mr. Neussl replied that
the airports referenced are those owned and operated by the
state.
Senator Olson asked if hospital heliports are included in
the list. He mentioned the reference to medical evacuation
procedures and the importance of lights to the pilot. Mr.
Neussl responded that the batteries are for the emergency
light kits purchased three years ago. The light kits are
set up for both runways and heliports. Because the kits are
portable, they could be moved to another location with a
medical evacuation heliport.
9:44:07 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman referenced RN 46338. He asked about
additional work slated for Newtok relocation. He thought it
beneficial to identify areas that are eroding, but he
advocated for those communities taking positive action to
relocate their communities. He informed that he discussed
the issue with the department last year.
Ms. Baker responded that the Newtok relocation has been a
collaboration of DOT/PF and the Department of Commerce,
Community and Economic Development. She did not believe
that additional funding existed for the Newtok project.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked if the planning and identification
of new locations was prioritized above addressing positive
movements for a community seeking relocation. He opined
that the identification of additional communities is not
the priority. He requested further advancement for the
relocation of Newtok.
Ms. Baker understood the concerns. She stated that the
study is in its final stages. She commented that the road
to the evacuation shelter had been completed in Newtok. The
next stage is work on the shelter.
Co-Chair Hoffman agreed that the studies were important,
but he stressed that the state must continue to aid those
communities requesting relocation. He thought that the
residents of Newtok would agree. Commissioner Luiken
responded that the next phase will begin this summer and
includes the construction of the evacuation shelter.
9:47:50 AM
RN 48941
Roads to Resources
$10,500,000
Co-Chair Stedman informed that the committee would address
the Roads to Resources in a separate meeting.
9:48:26 AM
RN 50770
Arctic Ports Study
$972,000
Ms. Baker explained that the general fund appropriation
would fund both a study and the mapping of potential Arctic
deep water port sites in conjunction with the US Army Corps
of Engineers.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if the project was part of the
digital mapping initiative. He asked how much funding the
program has received from the state thus far.
Commissioner Luiken stated that $4 million was allocated
toward the statewide digital mapping initiative. One
portion was to purchase the imagery segment of the map,
while another share of approximately $4 million was spent
last year. The federal match was approximately $11 million.
He hoped to use the study to leverage additional federal
funding.
Co-Chair Stedman compared the program to an orphaned child,
as it had moved among departments.
Commissioner Luiken commented that the program began with
the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) and
was oriented toward aviation safety. The money was divided
and the DMVA portion was moved to DOT/PF who has since
assumed responsibility.
Co-Chair Stedman asked for an update regarding priorities
for mapping. He asked about changes in the priority list.
Commissioner Luiken responded that last year's priority was
to map the south central region of the state.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that the mapping of the
metropolitan areas remained unfinished. Commissioner Luiken
agreed. He noted the intent to designate the entire
Southeast region for remapping in the future.
9:53:16 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked for the anticipated timeline.
Commissioner Luiken responded that the federal agencies'
match would factor into a time line. He anticipated that
the entire state would be complete in three years.
Co-Chair Stedman repeated that the entire state would be
mapped in three years. Commissioner Luiken stated that if
the department receives a federal match then yes the
project could be completed in three years.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that he was more comfortable with
state funding than federal. He asked how much additional
money was required to complete the project. Ms. Baker
estimated $4 million per year over a 3 year period.
9:55:00 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the department's method of
prioritization.
Commissioner Luiken stated that the aviation safety sites
had been mapped. The prioritization included a good portion
of the North Slope. The northwestern region of Alaska was
next on the list. He mentioned the idea of resource
exploration and the significant mineral deposits in
southeast Alaska that may influence the list of priorities.
Co-Chair Stedman asked for the written plan for the next
three years to be submitted to the committee. Commissioner
Luiken concurred.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked about the mapping of the west coast.
Commissioner Luiken offered to answer the question at a
later date.
9:57:08 AM
Senator McGuire asked who provides direction regarding
prioritization. Commissioner Luiken responded that he makes
the prioritization decisions.
Senator McGuire stated that the appropriation for the
arctic port was important. She believed that the
legislature wanted to be involved in the port process. She
asked how the commissioner would manage the great
responsibility. She wondered if the commissioner had
additional staff aiding the process. Commissioner Luiken
responded that he was contracting the U.S. Army Corp of
Engineers to define the parameters and provide focus.
10:00:01 AM
Senator McGuire stated that she would prefer to see the
project in the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
(DMVA) subcommittee, which she chairs. She mentioned recent
discussions addressing an arctic port. She offered to
facilitate communication between the department and various
military Generals. Commissioner Luiken replied that that
the department is actively involved with the DMVA.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that there was an issue of a
backlog of 2200 permits. Commissioner Luiken replied that
the mapping initiative is multifaceted and impacts multiple
departments.
10:02:19 AM
Senator Olson pointed out that the coast is 927 miles long.
He asked the length proposed when mapping the arctic coast.
Commissioner Luiken stated that he could not define the
exact length of the coast that would be mapped. He added
that there was a focus on the northwest portion of the
state.
Senator Olson announced the winner of the Iditarod as John
Baker from Kotzebue. He pointed out that this was the first
time that a member of his district won the Iditarod.
10:03:37 AM
RN #30608
MH: Coordinated Transportation and Vehicles
$1,050,000
Ms. Baker mentioned the combination of general fund mental
health funds at $800,000 and mental health trust authority
authorized receipts of $250 thousand. The project continued
the efforts of the coordinated transportation and vehicles
services for beneficiaries of the trust.
10:04:14 AM
RN 6391
Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance Projects
$500,000
Ms. Baker stated that the annual request provides funding
to remove the physical barriers for persons with
disabilities and state owned facilities as well as the
design, project administration and construction of the
necessary access.
10:05:01 AM
RN 32534
Capital Improvement Program Equipment Replacement
$1,500,000
Ms. Baker informed that the annual request in CIP receipts
funds the capital program equipment replacement.
10:05:38 AM
RN 50803
Material Site Mining Plans
$200,000
Ms. Baker explained that the funding would cover the
development of a booklet identifying various types of
material sites across the region along with the site
requirements.
10:06:04 AM
RN 50784
Northern Region: Material Site Reconnaissance
$500,000
Ms. Baker explained that the project would provide for a
site survey of approximately 18-25 material sites
throughout the region.
10:06:25 AM
Co-Chair Stedman referred to items 50803 and 50784, and
wondered why they were not combined. Ms. Baker replied that
the two items could be combined, but DOT/PF considered them
two separate types of requests. Co-Chair Stedman requested
a better definition of RN 50784.
PAT KEMP, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR HIGHWAYS, DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC FACILITIES, replied that the
first project addresses geotechnical work, while the second
includes surveying work. He stated that he was working with
the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on the surveying
portion of the project. The projects are important as the
state requires both the quantity and the quality of
material to address the needs on the Dalton highway and any
future pipeline projects.
Co-Chair Stedman clarified that the project allowed a firm
inventory of the material sources available for large
construction projects. Mr. Kemp affirmed.
Co-Chair Stedman wondered about an ongoing project in Sitka
where it appears that rock is imported from British
Columbia. He supposed that rock must be amply available in
southeast Alaska. He was concerned that the situation might
exist in other areas of the state. Mr. Kemp replied that
the rock was probably for paving aggregate or rut
resistance rock. He stated that there were only a few
sources in Alaska for the type of rock required. He
remarked that Haines had sources of paving aggregate.
10:09:59 AM
Co-Chair Stedman stressed that a local materials source in
Southeast Alaska should be accessed. Commissioner Luiken
agreed, and replied that he would look into it further.
10:11:42 AM
Senator Thomas pointed out items 50803 and 50784, and
reiterated that they could be combined from a geological
survey perspective.
Senator McGuire asked if private land owners were asked to
pay a portion of the survey costs. Mr. Kemp replied no.
Senator McGuire asked why the land owners were not asked to
pay a portion of the surveying costs if the project is an
attempt to resolve conflicts expressed by the private land
owners. Mr. Kemp responded that the state is the defendant
in the case requiring proof of right-of-way. He believed
that the issue was mapping the sites. The project is
dynamic and includes collaboration with DNR.
10:14:47 AM
RN 30628
State Equipment Fleet Replacement
$18,322,600
Ms. Baker announced that the project pays for large
equipment replacement such as snow blowers, graters, etc.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked about the justification listed in
the committee backup. He stated that he had interviewed
additional people throughout rural areas of the state who
were experiencing technical problems with computers and
other equipment. He noted delays as a result of time needed
to acquire parts for the technical equipment. He concluded
from his interviews that the rural areas of the state do
not require the greatest technological advances.
10:17:05 AM
Ms. Baker responded that she would like to interview the
project's equipment manager. She mentioned that some
replacement costs are based on purchasing multiple items.
She supposed that was the reason that the rural areas had
the same type of technology as the urban areas.
Co-Chair Hoffman expressed frustration with the process. He
believed that adjustments must be made to allow the rural
areas to function at peak efficiency when necessary.
Technical problems prevent the necessary efficiency.
Savings do not justify inefficiency. Ms. Baker promised to
look into the matter. Co-Chair Hoffman requested a report
on the department's findings.
10:19:07 AM
Senator McGuire thanked the department for following
through with this piece of the energy omnibus package. She
encouraged continued tracking of the issue. She wished to
resolve the rural issue.
RN 50872
Whittier Tunnel: Jet Fan Repairs and Communication
System Upgrade
$350,000
RN 6764
Statewide Federal Programs
$144,550,000
Ms. Baker skipped to page 29.
RN 34752
Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Program
$400,000
Ms. Baker noted the annual request that covers the grants
available through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration to provide safety inspections, educational
programs, outreach, compliance, etc. The requested amount
is less due to a balance remaining from prior years.
RN 31375
Federal Contingency Projects
17,000,000
Ms. Baker explained that the request included $5 million in
federal receipts and $12 million in statutory designated
program receipts. Cooperative reimbursable projects are for
funding that arrives for work done for federal or other
non-state agencies.
RN 31376
Federal Contingency Projects
$20,000,000
Ms. Baker explained that the contingency pot is used in
instances where a project is expected to contain additional
requirements that will eventually produce federal dollars.
10:21:53 AM
RN 38424
Federal Emergency Projects
$10,000,000
Ms. Baker explained that the funds are available in the
event that a disaster is declared to cover emergency
repairs.
RN 6896
Federal-Aid Aviation State Match
$11,900,000
Ms. Baker stated that the federal authority is listed by
project allocation.
RN 32609
Federal Aid Highway State Match
$47,200,000
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the $5.6 million for federally
ineligible highway project costs as stated on Page 39. Ms.
Baker responded that the calculation begins on Page 38. The
department demonstrated the calculation of the match
amount. One piece of the match included 100 percent general
fund payment toward a small piece of the project.
10:24:04 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked the definition of a federally
ineligible project cost. Mr. Kemp responded that work is
performed for a federal aid project is occasionally
ineligible for federal aid reimbursement. He provided
examples. The department thus requires a mechanism to fund
the federally ineligible items on a specific project.
10:25:07 AM
RN 30643
Federal Transit Administration Grants
$9,000,000
Ms. Baker explained that the grants are utilized for
transit vehicles for elderly and handicapped
transportation.
RN 33485
Highway Safety Grants Program
$8,000,000
Ms. Baker elaborated that the grants go out for public
outreach and education.
RN 41923
Other Federal Program Match
$1,050,000
Ms. Baker stated that the match is allocated for non-
aviation, non-highways, motor carrier safety assistance
program and the federal transit administration grants.
10:26:02 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the difference between the
requests for FY12 and FY13. Ms. Baker responded that the
future match was aligned with the anticipated federal
program dollars. Co-Chair Stedman requested a better
answer.
RN 34018
Statewide Safety Program
$20,000,000
Ms. Baker explained that the funds come in for various
types of safety improvement projects. Past projects
included advanced warning flashers, reflective pavement
markers, etc.
10:27:17 AM
Ms. Baker stated that the total FY 12 request is
$340,980,000 as a combination of federal receipts,
international airport funds and international airport
construction funds.
RN 47816
Alaska International Airport System: Reimbursable
Services Authority
$4,000,000
Ms. Baker explained that the funding allows for
contributions and reimbursement for work from tenants,
private citizens and other agencies for capital
construction projects related to the international
airports.
RN 43233
Angoon: Airport Environmental Impact Statement
$2,500,000
RN 47817
Alaska International Airport System: System Master
Plan
$400,000
Ms. Baker explained that $25 thousand of international
airport receipts and $375 thousand in federal receipt
authorization for the Anchorage International Airport
system master plan.
10:28:39 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman requested information regarding use of
last session's appropriation of $17 million for the federal
transit administration and the highway safety grants
programs. Ms. Baker agreed to provide the requested
information.
Senator Thomas asked about the current underutilized
capacity in Fairbanks and Anchorage International Airports.
Commissioner Luiken replied that the goal is a strategic
plan. He mentioned a recent organizational business study,
resulting in one recommendation for a strategic plan for
the international airport system. A strategic business plan
would be included to better address underutilization.
Senator Egan asked about the loss of China Airlines, its
last passenger carrier, at Ted Stevens international
airport. He imagined that the loss would lead to an
underutilized terminal. He asked to know the department's
plans and wondered if the study would address this need.
Commissioner Luiken agreed and stated that the
international passenger traffic will continue out of
Fairbanks and Anchorage via charters through Japan
Airlines. He agreed that the goal of the study was to
attract international passenger traffic.
10:31:59 AM
Senator Egan wondered about the empty terminal.
Commissioner Luiken replied that the department is aware of
the issue.
RN 51602
Bethel: Airport Runway/Taxiway/Commercial Apron
Pavement Rehabilitation
$13,700,000
RN 51604
Bethel: Airport Snow Removal Equipment Building
$6,500,000
RN 51603
Bethel: South General Aviation Apron and Taxiway
Pavement Reconstruction
$5,000,000
RN 51609
Birchwood: Airport Pavement Rehabilitation
$3,100,000
AMD 49164
DELETE: Cold Bay: Airport Pavement Rehabilitation
$0
10:33:22 AM
Ms. Baker elaborated that the amendment removed the Cold
Bay Airport pavement rehabilitation.
Co-Chair Hoffman asked why the item was removed. Mr. Luiken
replied that the project was moved into the FY 11
supplemental request to capitalize on the 2011 construction
season.
RN 48347
Coldfoot: Airport Improvements
$10,500,000
Ms. Baker added that the project will resurface the
operational surfaces and install new lighting.
10:34:08 AM
RN 51573
Deadhorse: Airport Rehabilitation
$30,400,000
RN 51611
Dillingham: Airport Improvement- Runway Safety Area
$26,500,000
RN 51627
Fairbanks International Airport: Aircraft Rescue
Firefighting Facility Upgrades
$16,700,000
RN 41527
Fairbanks International Airport: Equipment
$920,000
RN 49633
Golovin: Runway and Apron Improvements
$11,850,000
10:35:27 AM
RN 51574
Gulkana: Apron and Taxiway Pavement Rehabilitation
$1,730,000
RN 51601
Homer: Terminal Apron Taxiway Pavement Rehabilitation
$3,200,000
Co-Chair Stedman requested education for the Alaskan
citizens viewing the hearing to better understand the
ranking of the federal appropriations. He admitted that the
committee was moving through the items quickly and he
wanted to make the public aware of the vast amount of
information in each item.
10:36:23 AM
Ms. Baker replied that these projects are all funded with
federal receipts and the state match discussed earlier. The
airport improvement plan goes through a process of
applications and nominations from communities and other
entities in addition to ranking and scoring.
Mr. Luiken added that the process was driven by several
factors. He stated that FAA priorities were used to inform
the airport project evaluation board. A scoring system was
the next step, which led to the ranking and prioritizing
the projects listed.
Co-Chair Stedman stated that the Senate Finance Committee
does not get involved in the process of ranking. The
ranking is provided by the department.
10:38:06 AM
Ms. Baker continued to present the capital budget request
items.
RN 49130
Kotzebue: Airport and Runway Safety Area Improvements
$9,500,000
RN 49025
Kotzebue: Apron Expansion
$480,000
AMD 51605
Kwigillingok: Airport Rehabilitation
$1,500,000
RN 39138
Manley: Airport Relocation
$1,625,000
RN 51608
Nanwalek/Port Graham: Airport Master Plan
$3,500,000
RN 51626
Platinum: Airport Extension
$3,500,000
10:39:24 AM
RN 51575
Point Hope: Airport Rehabilitation
$6,715,000
RN 49102
Sitka: Rocky Gutierrez Airport Runway 11/29 overlay
$500,000
Co-Chair Stedman requested clarification on the item. Ms.
Baker responded that the runway was 11/29 overlay in Sitka.
Co-Chair Stedman asked if the location was the seaplane
haul out. Ms. Baker responded yes. Co-Chair Stedman
requested further information. Ms. Baker responded that
additional federal authorities used the project scope to
accommodate the relocation of the seaplane haul out ramp to
the east side of the runway. Co-Chair Stedman asked if the
purpose was to get the float planes on to the airport
runway. Commissioner Luiken responded correct.
10:40:52 AM
RN 36247
Statewide: Aviation Preconstruction
$18,000,000
Co-Chair Stedman requested further elaboration of the $18
million. Ms. Baker responded that the preconstruction
allocation of $18 million in federal receipt authority
funds the actual preconstruction efforts of the aviation
needs to ensure that projects are prepared and ready to be
used for construction. Co-Chair Stedman stated that the
item appears as an ongoing $18 million federal receipt
authority. Ms. Baker affirmed.
RN 36241
Statewide: Aviation Systems Plan Update
$2,500,000
RN 49340
Statewide: Various Airports Aeronautical Surveys
$2,000,000
10:42:11 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked about the survey. Commissioner
Luiken replied that the survey of the airport is an Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) requirement.
10:43:15 AM
RN 36245
Statewide: Various Airports Minor Surface Improvements
$10,000,000
RN 38582
Statewide: Various Airports Snow Removal and Safety
Equipment
$10,000,000
AMD 34727
DELETE: Talkeetna: Airport Improvement
$0
Ms. Baker informed that the item was moved from the capital
budget to the FY 11 supplemental request to capitalize on
the 2011 construction season.
Co-Chair Stedman informed that the supplemental budget was
a work in progress.
10:44:20 AM
AMD 51606
DELETE: Talkeetna: Airport Pavement Rehabilitation
$0
Ms. Baker informed that the funding for item 51606 was
in the supplemental bill.
RN 41525
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport: Advanced
Project Design and Planning
$3,000,000
AMD 47810
DELETE: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
AIAS Contingency Funds
$0
Ms. Baker informed that funding from a municipal bond fund
would cover the cost of item 47810.
AMD 40299
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport: Annual
Improvements
$1,000,000
RN 40299
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport: Annual
Improvements
$4,000,000
RN 51621
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport: Bag
Sorting Scanner Replacement
$1,700,000
Ms. Baker elaborated that the item was funded primarily
with federal receipts along with $106.3 thousand in
international airport receipts.
RN 51622
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport: Concourse
C Carpet Replacement
$400,000
AMD 51616
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport: E21 Gate/
Sallyport
$1,024,000
Ms. Baker informed that the funding was a combination of
federal receipts and international airport construction
funds. This item funds the design and construction of the
four car controlled gates.
10:46:28 AM
Co-Chair Stedman suggested that the items addressing the
Anchorage airport be combined and addressed at a later date
if committee member questions arise.
Senator Olson asked about the project evaluation board
discussed by the commissioner. He asked to know the members
of the board. Commissioner Luiken responded that the
evaluation board is made up of employees of DOT/PF
including the three regional directors, the deputy
commissioner of transportation for aviation.
Senator Olson asked if all board members are within the
department. Commissioner Luiken replied yes. He asked if
the board is assembled via statute or regulation.
Commissioner Luiken responded that he would respond to the
question at a later date.
10:48:18 AM
Senator McGuire stressed the goal of ensuring that the
airport is competitive in the global market. She agreed
with Senator Olson regarding brainstorming of the solutions
with input from entities outside of the DOT/PF. She
encouraged growth potential.
Commissioner Luiken stated that the Alaska Airline Advisory
Council is made up of member airlines that participate at
both airports and meet quarterly. If a project is covered
through international airport receipts, the airlines pay
for the receipts through the rates and fees that they pay
at both airports. He explained that these entities provide
the public input necessary to address the airport project
evaluation board's needs.
10:51:04 AM
Senator Olson asked if the Air Carrier Advisory Board had
veto power. He expressed concern regarding funding for the
domestic terminal.
Co-Chair Stedman moved to Page 124.
10:52:19 AM
RN 51610
Unalaska: Runway Safety Area and Pavement
Rehabilitation
$25,700,000
RN 36254
Whittier: Airport Master Plan
$125,000
10:52:50 AM
Ms. Baker continued with the Surface Transportation
Program. She informed that projects arrive through an
application and nomination process. She invited Mr. Kemp to
speak on the program's items.
Mr. Kemp noted that the Surface Transportation Program
undergoes a ranking process dictated by regulation. The
Community Transportation Program, Alaska Highway Program
and the Track Program undergo a similar process.
Co-Chair Stedman requested a definition of STIP. Mr. Kemp
replied that STIP is the acronym for the Statewide
Transportation Improvement Plan.
Ms. Baker addressed items in the Surface Transportation
Program.
AMD 51863
Alaska Disparity Study
$650,000
Ms. Baker elaborated that the study will perform an updated
evaluation on the availability, utilization, and disparity
of minority and women owned business.
RN 40380
Alaska Marine Highway System: Ferry Vessel
Refurbishment
$15,000,000
Ms. Baker stated that the general fund match portion exists
in a different appropriation. She noted that the item was
an annual request.
Co-Chair Stedman asked why the funding request is different
for FY 12. Ms. Baker offered to follow up with an answer.
10:56:22 AM
RN 38577
Alaska Marine Highway System: Fleet Condition Survey
Update
$200,000
AMD 51835
Alaska Marine Highway System: Pelican Ferry Terminal
Renovation
$3,000,000
AMD 51833
American Association of State Highway and
Transportation FY2012 Request: Officials Technical
Programs Support
$100,000
AMD 51864
Americans with Disabilities Act: Transition Plan for
Rights of Way
$500,000
RN 39100
Anchorage Metropolitan Area Transportation Solutions
(AMATS): Air Quality Public and Business Awareness
Education Campaign
$300,000
10:57:30 AM
RN 49117
AMATS: Arterial Roadway Dust Control
$200,000
RN 51557
AMATS: Dowling Road Extension West Reconstruction
$22,000,000
RN 51556
AMATS: O'Malley Road Reconstruction
$400,000
RN 40396
AMATS: ridesharing and Transit Marketing
$720,000
10:58:30 AM
RN 40363
Bethel: Tundra Ridge Road Improvements
$1,200,000
AMD 43313
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ): PM 2.5
reductions
$6,500,000
RN 40323
Dalton Highway: Milepost 9 to 11 Reconstruction - 9
Mile Hill
$3,000,000
RN 51836
Dalton Highway: Milepost 11 to 18 Reconstruction
$25,000,000
RN 47690
Dalton Highway: Milepost 197 to 209
$10,000,000
AMD 51553
Dalton Highway: Milepost 267 Holden Creek Bridge
Repair or Replacement
$5,000,000
RN 51553
Dalton Highway: Milepost 267 Holden Creek Bridge
Repair or Replacement
$2,200,000
11:00:08 AM
RN 51866
Fairbanks: Air Quality Planning Project
$200,000
RN 51559
Fairbanks Metropolitan Area Transportation System
(FMATS): Coordinator's Office
$330,000
RN 51558
FMATS: Gold Hill Road Bicycle and Pedestrian Facility
$1,100,000
RN 51572
FMATS: North Pole Bike Path Rehabilitation and
Connections
$455,000
RN 48369
FMATS: Sign Replacement
$1,365,000
SB 46 was HEARD and HELD in Committee for further
consideration.
11:01:32 AM
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SB 46 DCCED Project Review List.pdf |
SFIN 3/14/2011 9:00:00 AM SFIN 3/15/2011 9:00:00 AM |
SB 46 |
| SB 46 DHSS Project Review List.pdf |
SFIN 3/14/2011 9:00:00 AM SFIN 3/15/2011 9:00:00 AM |
SB 46 |
| SB 46 DOT Project Review List.pdf |
SFIN 3/14/2011 9:00:00 AM SFIN 3/15/2011 9:00:00 AM |
SB 46 |
| SB 46 Final Combined Response #24 Senator Stedman.pdf |
SFIN 3/15/2011 9:00:00 AM |
SB 46 |