Legislature(2007 - 2008)SENATE FINANCE 532
04/21/2007 09:00 AM Senate FINANCE
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB53 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 53 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED |
MINUTES
SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
April 21, 2007
9:02 a.m.
CALL TO ORDER
Co-Chair Bert Stedman convened the meeting at approximately
9:02:47 AM.
PRESENT
Senator Lyman Hoffman, Co-Chair
Senator Bert Stedman, Co-Chair
Senator Charlie Huggins, Vice Chair
Senator Joe Thomas
Senator Fred Dyson
Senator Donny Olson
Senator Kim Elton
Also Attending: JOHN MACKINNON, Deputy Commissioner of Highways
and Public Facilities, Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities; NANCY SLAGLE, Director, Division of Administrative
Services, Department of Transportation and Public Facilities;
FRANK RICHARDS, State Maintenance Engineer, Transportation
Management and Security Section, Office of the Commissioner,
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities;
Attending via Teleconference: There were no teleconference
participants.
SUMMARY INFORMATION
SB 53-BUDGET: CAPITAL, SUPP. & OTHER APPROPS
The Committee heard from the Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities on capital appropriation requests. The bill
was held in Committee.
9:03:19 AM
SENATE BILL NO. 53
"An Act making appropriations, including capital
appropriations, supplemental appropriations, and
appropriations to capitalize funds; and providing for an
effective date."
This was the fourth hearing for this bill in the Senate Finance
Committee.
9:04:13 AM
NANCY SLAGLE, Director, Division of Administrative Services,
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, introduced
herself for the record.
JOHN MACKINNON, Deputy Commissioner of Highways and Public
Facilities, Department of Transportation and Public Facilities,
introduced himself for the record.
9:04:46 AM
Corps of Engineers - Harbor Program
$2,600,000 General Fund Match
Reference No.: 36453
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
Participation with the Corps of Engineers and local
governments in harbor breakwaters, dredging, feasibility
studies, and program assistance. This project contributes
to the Department's Mission by reducing injuries,
fatalities and property damage and by improving the
mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle reminded that similar requests had been presented to
the legislature.
9:06:06 AM
Airport Deferred Maintenance
$750 000 General Fund
Reference No.: AMD30633
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. To repair the
backlog of maintenance items that cannot be done through
the operating budget funding levels. Typical items are
pavement repairs, lighting repairs, fencing repairs, and
bird and animal controls. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle stated that these funds would be expended for
projects that were typically not eligible to receive federal
funds.
9:07:03 AM
Alaska Marine Highway System - Vessel and Terminal Overhaul
and Rehabilitation
$13,444,500 General Fund
Reference No.: AMD30624
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 12/31/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. Annual
maintenance and overhaul on vessels and at terminals,
particularly component or system which will impact service
in the short terms. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle reported that some vessels were approximately 40 yrs
old. As the vessels age, they required more maintenance and
repairs.
Ms. Slagle told of US Coast Guard requirements to dismantle
propellers to demonstrate they still functioned.
9:08:27 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked the reason this item had been amended
from the original Governor's capital budget proposal.
9:08:46 AM
Ms. Slagle replied that the new Palin Administration intended to
review the total need of the system before submission for
federal funding. This was not a declaration that the original
funding requested was not required.
Ms. Slagle also indicated the funds would be utilized for shore
facilities and docking facilities, as well as security and
safety aboard the ships. This would include fire equipment.
9:10:05 AM
Senator Dyson surmised that many capital projects appeared to
have adequate projections of future budgets. He asked why this
project differed in that regard.
9:10:32 AM
Ms. Slagle answered that the marine vessels were aging and
therefore prediction of the exact needs was difficult.
Supplemental budget requests had been made to address specific
needs relating to electrical systems, propellers, engines and
other equipment. The estimated future budgetary needs were
similar to the amount requested in this item.
9:11:20 AM
Co-Chair Stedman understood that the newly appointed admiral of
the fleet had been directed to address the Committee the
following legislative session about the long term projected
costs to operate the ships. This briefing would include ongoing
maintenance needs and repairs as well as expenditures on efforts
to avoid unforeseen large expenses.
9:12:20 AM
Senator Dyson expressed interest in the future of the Marine
Highway System. The experience with the fast ferries was
"mixed". A task force should consider whether the system could
be operated in a better manner.
9:13:12 AM
Co-Chair Stedman reiterated that in January 2008, the Palin
Administration would appraise the legislature of the status of
the system and plans for its future, including performance of
the fast ferries. Interest had been expressed by some
legislatures to assign an independent body to review the system.
All parties recognized that "what's been going on in the last
few years can't continue."
9:14:29 AM
Senator Dyson understood that some labor contracts prevented the
Department from implementing changes to provide the best
management and the best service. Proposed improvements should
not be considered "blindly" without accounting for these
impediments.
9:15:18 AM
Co-Chair Stedman informed that he had requested that the
Department overview include the impact of labor issues,
including the increased costs of the labor contracts.
9:16:00 AM
Mr. Mackinnon furthered that an independent review was included
in the Department plan to allow a third party to "validate" the
actions of the Department.
9:16:16 AM
Co-Chair Stedman commented that the review could also invalidate
Department activities.
9:16:21 AM
Ms. Slagle pointed out that despite any direction of future
activities, implementation would require time. Maintenance of
the vessels therefore must continue.
9:16:50 AM
Senator Dyson requested the review consider any plans to
construct roadways to connect ferry routes.
9:17:12 AM
Alaska Marine Highway System - Vessel and Terminal Overhaul
and Rehabilitation
$13,444,500 General Fund
Reference No.: AMD30624
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 12/31/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. Annual
maintenance and overhaul on vessels and at terminals,
particularly component or system failures which will impact
service in the short term. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle asserted that the needs "far outweigh" the amount of
funding requested in this item.
9:17:58 AM
Harbor Program Development
$200,000 General Fund Match
Reference No.: 7091
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
Participation with the Corps of Engineers and local
governments in harbor breakwaters, dredging, feasibility
studies, and program assistance. This project contributes
to the Department's Mission by reducing injuries,
fatalities and property damage and by improving the
mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle outlined this item.
9:18:43 AM
Capital Improvement Program Equipment Replacement
$1,500,000 Capital Improvement Project (CIP) Receipts
Reference No.: 32534
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2009
Replace equipment through a usage fee charged to capital
projects. Types of equipment to be replaced include
specialized instruments used in designing projects,
copiers, plotters and computers. The project will also pay
for ineligible usage rate costs reimbursed through the
Indirect Cost Allocation Plans. This project contributes to
the Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities
and property damage and by improving the mobility of people
and goods.
Ms. Slagle explained this program.
9:19:43 AM
Senator Elton noted the reference to "ineligible usage rate
costs" and requested an explanation.
9:20:03 AM
Ms. Slagle told of the process in which a percentage rate was
levied on all construction projects. Most of the capital
projects undertaken by the Department utilize federal funding
and the Federal Highway Program did not allow the State to
charge equipment purchases to construction projects. Therefore,
the Indirect Cost Allocation Plan is employed to fund the costs
to support and administer the federal construction program.
9:20:58 AM
Senator Dyson inquired about the final sentence in the summary
statement regarding the Department's mission.
9:21:21 AM
Ms. Slagle explained that this language was included in the
summary statements of most of the funding request items. It
indicates the Department's primary goal of developing and
maintaining roads and airports.
9:22:05 AM
Senator Dyson characterized the sentence as "boiler plate
language".
9:23:05 AM
Mr. Mackinnon disclosed that the Department had "extended the
life" of its computers from three to four years. He assured that
the funds were not requested for "buying Cadillacs". However,
replacement equipment would have "certain ergonomic features",
as research has shown that long term use reduced workers
compensation claims.
9:23:56 AM
Senator Dyson added "and lawsuits".
Mr. Mackinnon affirmed that the Department made efforts to avoid
such actions. Federal Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) inspections were conducted in remote sites
for the purpose of meeting with all employees to discuss safety.
A reduction of 69 percent in the number of workers compensation
claims has been experienced in the last three years.
9:24:44 AM
Senator Dyson supported the intent but was unsure the pertinence
of ergonomic features for printers and plotters.
9:24:58 AM
Community Harbor Deferred Maintenance and Transfer
$3,300,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD42968
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. This request
provides deferred maintenance funding that will allow
eligible municipalities to take ownership of state owned
harbor facilities in accordance with AS 35.10.120. This
project contributes to the Department's Mission by reducing
injuries, fatalities and property damage and by improving
the mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle told of the transfer of more than 70 harbors to local
government ownership.
9:26:10 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked whether the Department would undertake
replacement of the facility located at Warm Springs if the City
and Borough of Sitka declined to accept ownership of the harbor.
9:26:31 AM
Ms. Slagle had been told by the city administrator that the
municipality was interested in assuming ownership.
9:26:47 AM
Co-Chair Stedman stressed the need for a firm commitment from
local governments to assume ownership of these facilities. Users
of the Warm Springs harbor paid no user fees. He suggested that
unless responsibility was transferred to local governments, the
Department not replace the existing facilities but rather remove
them when they became deteriorated. He predicted that users
would then be willing to contribute to the cost of the
facilities.
9:27:49 AM
Mr. Mackinnon reminded that in conjunction with a recent bond
proposal, voters approved the devolution of some harbor
facilities to local governments. The Department had some
difficulty in convincing local governments to assume ownership.
However, when informed that the facilities would otherwise be
surplus, the local governments all agreed to accept ownership. A
similar situation occurred with a facility located at the
Petersburg harbor.
9:29:19 AM
Co-Chair Stedman pointed out that users of the Petersburg harbor
paid moorage fees, while no fees were paid for moorage at Warm
Springs. He found State-funded improvements for the Warm Springs
facility in which users refused to contribute "objectionable."
If the City and Borough of Sitka were to assume ownership, he
supported the improvements. Otherwise, he would not support this
funding request.
9:30:31 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman cautioned of the impact of an "arm twist" by
the State on some communities to assume ownership of harbor
facilities. Use of the facility at Bethel, for example, was
necessary to contain the cost of living. He understood the need
to impose user fees for facilities in communities that had
alternative transportation methods. However, the community of
Bethel should not be "strong armed".
9:32:21 AM
Mr. Mackinnon agreed the situations at Warm Springs and Bethel
were different. Regarding the Bethel harbor facility, he stated
"there is no option but to make the repairs." An appropriation
for this effort was made three years prior that included
transfer to local ownership. However, the amount was "very
insufficient" to accomplish the maintenance and repairs. A
revised plan was formulated with the assistance of the harbor
director.
9:33:00 AM
Co-Chair Stedman directed his earlier comments to docks located
in remote areas of Southeast Alaska that served "three to four
people".
9:33:22 AM
Senator Dyson stressed that the Bethel seawall served freight
distribution for the entire Southwestern region. The
justification for State support of that facility was "far more"
valid than other facilities that benefited only a few.
9:33:53 AM
Coordinated Transportation and Vehicles
$300,000 MHTAAR
Reference No.: 30648
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
Competitive grants for coordinated transportation services
for Mental Health Trust beneficiaries whenever possible, or
purchase of vehicles for beneficiaries where coordinated
services are not yet available or appropriate. This project
contributes to the Department's Mission by improving the
mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle exampled the Caravan service in Juneau as a
coordinated community transportation system that assisted
elderly and disabled people with transportation from one
location to another. This funding would also be utilized to
provide transportation during hours in which these systems were
not operating, as well as providing transportation in remote
areas and communities without a coordinated system. The
Department entered into agreements with taxi companies to
accomplish this.
9:35:24 AM
Dalton Highway Including Surface Materials
$9,000,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD41390
Category: Transportation
Location: Alatna
Election District: Interior Villages
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. The 415-mile
long Dalton Highway is the sole ground transportation link
to the revenue lifeblood of Alaska, the North Slope oil
fields. Over the last two decades the roadway surface and
roadside drainage structures have fallen into disrepair due
to insufficient funding. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle noted this was the third funding request related to
this project. Funds would be utilized for guardrail replacement
and other repairs.
9:36:31 AM
Senator Olson asked if the need for repairs was a result of
increased traffic occurring on the road with the change to the
bypass mail delivery from air transportation to surface
transportation by trucks to Deadhorse.
Mr. Mackinnon replied that an increase in traffic had been
noted; however, the change in mail delivery service had only
been in effect for one year.
9:37:03 AM
Facilities Deferred Maintenance and Critical Repairs
$2,000,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD30632
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. To address the
most critical deferred maintenance needs at Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) maintained
facilities. This project contributes to the Department's
Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and property
damage and by improving the mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle cited the accompanying Project
Description/Justification, which reads as follows.
The department is responsible for 700 buildings, 1.3 of
which are over 30 years old (some are from the 1940's and
1950's). The department maintains 4.2 million sq. ft. of
buildings including office buildings, maintenance shops,
employee housing and equipment storage buildings. The
deferred maintenance backlog includes: roof replacements,
boiler replacements, sidewalk replacements, fire and
mechanical code compliance, repairs or upgrades to HVAC,
electrical, water lines, septic, drain and fuel
distribution systems.
9:38:43 AM
Fuel Storage Tank Spill Prevention and Tank Replacement
$1,750,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD39910
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. In 2003, the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revised its
regulations governing storage of fuel in above ground tanks
requiring tank owners to replace old tanks with new double
wall tanks and construct the necessary means to protect the
tanks. Additionally, Spill Prevention, Control and
Countermeasure (SPCC) Plans are to be updated or revised
every three years according to the new regulations. This
project contributes to the Department's Mission by reducing
injuries, fatalities and property damage.
Ms. Slagle told of the Department's reliance on bulk fuel tanks
in rural areas for airports and maintenance facilities.
9:39:48 AM
Harbor Deferred Maintenance
$500,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD7090
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. To address
backlogged deferred maintenance for state-owned harbors.
This project contributes to the Department's Mission by
reducing injuries, fatalities and property damage and by
improving the mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle stated that the Department maintained those harbors
that were still owned by the State, currently 29 facilities.
Many were located in areas in which transfer of ownership to
local government was not feasible. This funding would be
utilized to make improvements to dock floatation, gangway
repairs and other deferred maintenance projects intended to
extend the life of the facilities.
9:40:58 AM
Co-Chair Stedman spoke to harbors located within the election
district he represented. The harbor at Elfin Cove served
commercial fishing vessels, the community of Hollis had an
economy based on mining, and the dock at Funter Bay was
primarily used to access recreational cabins. However, no user
fees were collected for the use of these three facilities. The
State should not be furnishing these docks at no cost to the
users.
9:42:16 AM
Mr. Mackinnon agreed. "Refuge floats" such as those located at
Funter Bay and Swanson Harbor were based on an outdated model
and were no longer necessary. The community of Hollis had
organized a cooperative to operate a fuel dock and therefore
could assume ownership of the harbor facilities. Elfin Cove was
"active" during the summer months with commercial fishing
activities and a method in which to fund the facility in that
community could be developed.
9:43:12 AM
Co-Chair Stedman concluded that if the State was unable to
transfer ownership to local governments, these facilities should
be removed.
9:43:28 AM
Highway Deferred Maintenance
$3,000,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD30631
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. The current
backlog of deferred maintenance is over $200 million. The
program will address some of the needs that cannot be
funded in the operating budget maintenance funds (M&O-
Maintenance & Operations). Typical items are surface and
embankment repairs, drainage culverts and ditch repairs,
guardrail repairs, marking and sign repairs, and brushing.
This project contributes to the Department's Mission by
reducing injuries, fatalities and property damage and by
improving the mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle informed that federal funding could not be utilized
for these projects. The cost to address all the deferred
maintenance needs significantly exceeded the amount of this
budget request.
9:44:36 AM
MSCVE Weigh Station Maintenance and Repair
$300,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD 42970
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. Maintenance has
been limited for several weigh stations throughout the
state. This request will provide much needed repair or
replacement of these facilities. This project contributes
to the Department's Mission by reducing injuries,
fatalities and property damage and by improving the
mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle noted the funding was intended for ongoing
maintenance. She highlighted the Project
Description/Justification accompanying this request, which reads
as follows.
The following are examples of where these funds will be
used:
Fox Weigh Station
Repair and maintenance on the existing weigh station. Re-
side and paint. Construction support and lightning strike
repair and Arrestor installation. Repair damaged or
destroyed LED signs. Without these repairs, the Fox Weigh
Station will continue to deteriorate.
Ester Weigh Station
Replace the existing building or re-side and paint existing
building, depending on funding available. Without these
repairs, the Ester Weigh Station will continue to
deteriorate.
Sterling Weigh Station
Repair and maintenance. Repair/replace scale deck,
electrical wiring in pit, exterior walls, window hinges,
cement slab, carpet and rubber flooring, asphalt at scales.
Permanently install chimney. Paint throughout. Without
these repairs, the Sterling Weigh Station will continue to
deteriorate.
Potter Weigh Station
Repair and maintenance. Refurbish counter handrails.
Repair/replace furnace, outside halogen lights, emergency
light, carpet, south end door auto closer. Seal window.
Move "OPEN" flashing light switch to front counter. Without
these repairs, the Potter Weigh Station will continue to
deteriorate.
Tok Weigh Station
The weigh station is currently slated to be replaced in FY
08. If the weigh station is not replaced, the following
repair and maintenance would need to be done on the
existing weigh station. Move sewer and septic system.
Install heat tape in sewer lines. Extend eaves.
Repair/replace bolsters in front of building. Without these
repairs, the Tok Weigh Station will continue to
deteriorate.
Glenn Inbound and Outbound Weigh Stations
Repair and maintenance. Repave/patch both parking lots. Add
speed bumps at scales bypass lanes. Repair water service.
Install guard rails in front of stations for employee
safety. Install half-doors at both stations' interiors.
Paint the bollards and trim to department colors. Replace
deteriorated signs with new LED signs at both stations.
Without these repairs, the Glenn inbound and outbound Weigh
Stations will continue to deteriorate.
9:45:59 AM
Senator Dyson noticed significant activities occurring at the
Glenn Weigh Stations. Experts attest that improving the road
system between Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley would require
that the stations be relocated.
9:46:49 AM
Mr. Mackinnon stated that the stations had not been maintained
for some time. The Department would undertake repairs with the
intention that the scales could be relocated at a later date.
9:47:24 AM
Senator Thomas asked the approximate amount to address all
identified highway deferred maintenance needs.
9:48:18 AM
Ms. Slagle and Mr. Mackinnon reviewed their written notes.
Senator Thomas requested details be provided to him.
9:48:50 AM
State Equipment Fleet Replacement
$15,000,000 Highway Capital Funds
Reference No.: 30628
Category: General Government
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2009
Replacement and/or refurbishment of equipment and vehicles
which have reached the end of their useful life cycles and
all extension periods, and continued conversion of vehicles
to alternate fuel and related alternate fuel program
expenses. This project contributes to the Department's
Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and property
damage and by improving the mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle noted this item applied to all State-owned vehicles,
including Alaska State Trooper vehicles, road graders and light
trucks. Funding is requested in an ongoing basis according to a
replacement schedule.
9:49:55 AM
Statewide: Rural Airport Safety Improvements
$3,000,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD42072
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 09/30/2008
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. To address the
backlog of safety improvement projects at rural airports
throughout the state. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle reminded that an appropriation of a "similar" amount
was received for FY 07 to address the highest priority safety
issues, including wind cone replacements, rotating lights and
towers and lighting systems. Failure to maintain these
facilities could result in significant liability.
Ms. Slagle informed that a portion of the funding received for
FY 07 had been expended for the "Kake airport settlement
repairs." Projects undertaken with the requested funds would
include South Naknek and Nome, with the reshaping of the runway
at that airport.
9:51:27 AM
Senator Olson asked the amount of funding that would be
allocated for "dust repair" efforts.
9:51:41 AM
Ms. Slagle responded that of the $3 million received, $370,000
would be expended on these efforts.
9:51:55 AM
Senator Olson asked the amount of "effort and energy" invested
in the Quartz Creek airport, given that no one resides in the
area.
9:52:12 AM
Ms. Slagle replied that approximately $100,000 would be
allocated for reshaping and filling dips in the runway.
9:52:25 AM
Surfacing Materials
$1,250,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD33853
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. This project
makes available additional crushed materials that can be
used for maintenance (not eligible for federal funding).
Doing this in conjunction with large federal-aid highway
projects achieves significant savings. Surfacing materials
will be a bid item in major projects on the Taylor,
Elliott, Denali, Tok Cutoff, Steese, Glenn, Richardson, and
Alaska Highways. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle explained the benefit of securing this material in
conjunction with larger projects rather than separately in
smaller quantities.
9:53:19 AM
Statewide Federal Programs
$55,230,000 Federal Receipts
$56,638,000 General Fund Match
$100,000 General Funds
$12,000,000 Statutory Designated Program Receipts
Reference No.: 6764
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
Statewide Programs
This item relates to the appropriation of funds to be allocated
to the following budget request items.
Advanced Project Definition for Denali Commission
$100,000 General Funds
Reference No.: AMD42960
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
This is a new FY 08 Capital Budget Request. Funds to cover
regional costs associated with the development of project
scopes, schedules and budgets for projects we intend to
nominate to the Denali Commission. This project contributes
to the Department's Mission by reducing injuries,
fatalities and property damage and by improving the
mobility of people and goods.
Ms. Slagle overviewed this item.
9:54:13 AM
Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety, Infrastructure Protection
and Security
$3,030,000 Federal Receipts
Reference No.: 39893
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
Authority to receive and expend funds from several federal
agencies such as Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration (FMCSA), Transportation Safety
Administration (TSA), Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA), and National Highway Transportation Safety
Administration (NHTSA). These funds are needed to cover
proposals currently submitted to the above agencies. This
project contributes to the Department's Mission by reducing
injuries, fatalities and property damage.
Ms. Slagle told of funding received from border enforcement
programs that would be utilized to address issues such as
overweight vehicles and other safety concerns involving
commercial vehicles entering the state.
9:55:33 AM
Mr. Mackinnon further told of the "valuable services" performed
by enforcement officers in watching for potential safety
concerns and "things out of place."
9:56:05 AM
Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Program
$1,200,000 Federal Receipts
Reference No.: 34752
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
To reduce the number and severity of accidents involving
commercial vehicles through safety inspections, educational
programs, and compliance reviews. This project contributes
to the Department's Mission by reducing injuries,
fatalities and property damage.
Ms. Slagle noted the use of federal funds.
9:56:14 AM
Cooperative Reimbursable Projects
$1,500,000 Federal Receipts
$12,000,000 Statutory Designated Program Receipts
Reference No.: 31375
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
Reimbursable work is done for specialized services provided
to federal agencies. Federal Reimbursable authority may
also be used for projects approved for the Denali
Transportation System. This project contributes to the
Department's Mission by reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage and by improving the mobility of people and
goods.
Ms. Slagle overviewed this item.
9:57:10 AM
Federal-Aid Aviation State Match
$15,000,000 General Fund Match
Reference No.: 6896
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
State match required to pursue about $220 million in
federal Aviation Improvement Program funds and provide 1/2
of the match required for about $30 million in federal
funds for local sponsors' airports. The match will be used
for rural and state primary airports (not Anchorage or
Fairbanks). The non-federal match share is 5%. The State
will provide 50% of the match required for projects at
airports sponsored by local governments. This project
contributes to the Department's Mission by improving the
mobility of people and goods, reducing injuries, fatalities
and property damage, and by increasing private investment.
Ms. Slagle explained that the amount of funding had increased
for the past several years, allowing for more rural airport
projects.
9:57:57 AM
Federal-Aid Highway State Match
$40,000,000 General Fund Match
Reference No.: 32609
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
This is the match required for about $420 million in
federal-aid highway funding which includes the
discretionary earmarks in SAFETEA-LU. This project
contributes to the Department's Mission by improving the
mobility of people and goods, reducing injuries, fatalities
and property damage, and by increasing private investment.
Ms. Slagle overviewed this item.
9:58:33 AM
Other Federal Program Match
$1,638,000 General Fund Match
Reference No.: 41923
Category: Transportation
Location: Statewide
Election District: Statewide
Estimated Project Dates: 07/01/2007 - 06/30/2012
This is the match required for federal programs funded by
the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration,
the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the
Federal Transit Administration. This project contributes to
the Department's Mission by improving the mobility of
people and goods, reducing injuries, fatalities and
property damage, and by increasing private investment.
Ms. Slagle highlighted this item.
9:59:11 AM
Ms. Slagle concluded the presentation of the budget requests
that involved general funds. Other requests had been submitted
by the Palin Administration with an FY 07 effective date.
9:59:59 AM
Ms. Slagle listed $20 million for the Palmer Wasilla Highway
improvements, $20 million for two "connect Anchorage projects"
that included the New Seward Highway and 92nd Avenue grade
separation, and $5 million for the Eagle River Glenn Highway and
Highland and artillery interchange improvements.
10:00:53 AM
Ms. Slagle indicated that documentation of these projects would
be distributed.
10:01:06 AM
Senator Olson, referring to the Federal-Aid Aviation State Match
item, No. 6896, asked if any effort would be made to replace the
federally-operated weather station systems at Galena and
Kaktovik with a State-operated system.
10:01:48 AM
FRANK RICHARDS, State Maintenance Engineer, Transportation
Management and Security Section, Office of the Commissioner,
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, testified
that the Department had petitioned the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) on behalf of the affected communities.
Department staff traveled to Washington D.C and met with FAA
officials. The intent was to ensure safety for commercial
pilots.
10:02:38 AM
Senator Olson clarified that the Department did not intend to
replace the existing system with a State-operated system.
10:02:49 AM
Mr. Richards responded that the State had not typically provided
this equipment and service.
10:03:17 AM
Co-Chair Stedman directed that the remaining budget requests be
presented in an abbreviated manner.
10:04:09 AM
Ms. Slagle listed the reference numbers, titles and amounts of
the following projects as receiving federal funding. Unless
otherwise noted the funding source is Federal Receipts.
31376 Federal Contingency Projects
$15,000,000
38424 Federal Emergency Projects
$10,000,000
AMD30643 Federal Transit Administration Grants
$9,000,000
AMD33485 Highway Safety Grants Program
$3,000,000
34018 Statewide Safety Program
$12,500,000
7470 Airport Improvement Program
$152,040,500 Federal Receipts
$3,136,000 International Airport Revenue Funds
$25,206,981 International Airport Construction
Funds
43254 Akiachak: Airport Relocation
$10,500,000
40276 Alakanuk: Airport Relocation
$2,467,500
40278 Allakaket: Airport Improvements
$400,000
43233 Angoon: Airport Environmental Impact Statement
$1,000,000
AMD41715 Delete: Atka: Airport Extension and Resurfacing
$0
38409 Bethel: Airport Parallel Runway and Other
Improvements
$3,000,000
39176 Central Region: Snow Removal Equipment
$1,000,000
43255 Chefornak: Airport Relocation
$2,000,000
10:06:13 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman asked why the Atka Airport project was deleted.
Ms. Slagle answered that allocation of the appropriation was
included in the FY 07 Supplemental Budget legislation.
10:06:42 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman asked if all the items listed as deleted were
done so for the same reason.
10:06:49 AM
Ms. Slagle affirmed that the funding was allocated for FY 07 to
allow the projects to commence earlier.
10:07:19 AM
Senator Dyson, referencing Reference No. 34018, Federal Transit
Administration Grants, asked if the State would be receiving
fewer funds due to the absence of a statute relating to open
containers.
Mr. Mackinnon clarified that federal funds would not be reduced;
rather funds would be redirected from "construction" to
"safety". This was a matter of "soft sanctions" versus "hard
sanctions".
Ms. Slagle furthered that this would also relate to safety
projects to the rural road system.
10:08:38 AM
Senator Dyson requested notification in the event that State
statutes "infringe" on the ability to secure federal funding or
the ability to "use it wisely".
10:09:06 AM
Ms. Slagle continued listing the federally funded projects.
43237 Cold Bay: Terminal Master Plan
$300,000
38400 Cordova: Airport Apron, Taxiway, and General
Aviation Improvements
$1,500,000
10:10:04 AM
40271 Cordova: Airport Runway Safety Area
$3,200,000
AMD43239 Cordova: Sand Storage Shed
$2,053,000
Senator Olson assumed the three projects pertained to the main
airport at Cordova.
Ms. Slagle affirmed.
AMD43256 Delete: Crooked Creek: Airport Improvements
$0
43240 Deadhorse: Airport Master Plan
$600,000
43253 Dillingham: 3 Bay Chemical Storage Building
$1,500,000
43241 Emmonak: Rehabilitation, Apron Expansion and
Runway Safety Area Improvements
$2,200,000
40292 Fairbanks International Airport: Terminal Area
Development
$2,777,619
Ms. Slagle noted that bond proceeds were the source of the
funding for the Fairbanks airport project.
10:11:42 AM
38396 Grayling: Airport Reconstruction
$2,500,000
43244 Huslia: Airport Improvements
$7,525,000
AMD41718 Iliamna: Snow Removal Equipment/Sand and Chemical
Storage/Office Building
$1,150,000
40270 Ketchikan: Snow Removal Equipment/Sand/Urea
Building Construction
$1,000,000
40279 Kodiak: Airport Runway Safety Area Expansion
$1,000,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:12:57 AM
Senator Olson assumed the project pertained to the main airport
facility on Kodiak Island. He asked if the State maintained the
smaller airport located in downtown Kodiak.
Ms. Slagle responded that the city maintained the smaller
facility.
10:13:24 AM
AMD41713 Konigiganak: Airport Improvements
$5,000,000
47138 Manley: Airport Relocation
$2,100,000
40456 Manokotak: Airport Relocation
$2,000,000
40452 Minto: Runway Relocation
$2,500,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:14:20 AM
Senator Elton cited the supporting documentation for this item,
which included an "FAA supplement" stating that a road crossed
the runway. He assumed the State agreed with the FAA assertion
that such a roadway existed in this location.
Mr. Richards nodded in affirmation.
10:15:03 AM
42043 Nome: Airport Rehabilitation
$4,240,000
AMD40602 Delete: Nunapitchuk: Airport and Access
Improvements
$0
43236 Port Alsworth: Airport Master Plan
$500,000
43258 Port Lions: Temporary Snow Removal Equipment
Building
$125,000
43242 Savoonga: Airport Improvements
$9,050,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:16:08 AM
Senator Olson asked if the Master Plan project at Port Alsworth
was intended to replace the existing two airports with one.
Ms. Slagle was unsure and indicated that she would research the
matter.
10:16:35 AM
43243 Shishmaref: Airport Master Plan
$350,000
43232 Southeast: Snow Removal Equipment
$2,380,000
AMD43317 Statewide: Airports Water Rescue Planning,
Equipment and Improvements
$20,000,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:17:25 AM
Co-Chair Stedman recalled that the slow plow truck located at
Petersburg had slid off the runway resulting in a bent frame. He
asked if Reference No. #43232 would provide funding to replace
that vehicle.
10:17:52 AM
Mr. Mackinnon explained that funding appropriated through the
Federal Aviation Administration was typically intended for use
on runway equipment rather than highway equipment. Use of these
funds was subject to stringent guidelines. Replacement of the
vehicle located at Petersburg would be secured through an
insurance claim.
Senator Olson asked for a description of the equipment referred
to as a "trap".
10:18:29 AM
Mr. Richards described a trap plow as a "big U-blade" mounted to
the front of a large truck or loader and used to clear ramps and
taxiways "on a rapid basis".
10:18:43 AM
36247 Statewide: Aviation Preconstruction
$18,000,000
36241 Statewide: Aviation Systems Plan Update
$4,500,000
36245 Statewide: Various Airports Minor Surface
Improvements
$5,000,000
40305 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Building
$5,000,000 Federal Receipts
$500,000 International Airport Construction Funds
40294 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Airfield Pavement Maintenance
$ 5,000,000
40299 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Annual Improvements
$1,316,000 International Airport Revenue Funds
AMD 40306 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Concourse A and B Remodel
$1,800,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items. The International Airport Receipt
funds are collected as landing fees.
10:21:07 AM
Senator Elton requested further explanation of the projects
planned at the Anchorage airport. They were described as new
capital budget requests; however, the funding history of the
past few years indicates $145 million had already been expended.
He asked if the requested funds would be utilized for "fixing
something" or "taking a look at something that may need
additional funds in the future."
Ms. Slagle understood the items to reflect "federal receipts
associated with those projects." Previous funding received for
the terminal project remodel was generated from bonds. The new
items were "specific to ramps [and other] exterior things that
would be FAA funded."
10:22:17 AM
Amd41521 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Environmental Compliance and Cleanup
$1,820,000 International Airport Revenue Funds
$2,300,000 International Airport Construction
Funds
AMD39139 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Equipment
$5,500,000 International Airport Construction
Funds
AMD 41523 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Land Acquisition and Mitigation
$2,500,000
40301 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Letter of Intent 1
$400,000 International Airport Construction Funds
Ms. Slagle explained the appropriations received through the FAA
were intended as additional funding for specific projects,
including B concourse and a parking extension.
40303 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Letter of Intent 2
$1,670,000 International Airport Construction
Funds
Ms. Slagle noted this item was similar to the previous item and
that this funding was intended for other projects.
40296 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Noise abatement Program Implementation
$4,000,000
41522 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Roads, Utilities and Grounds Construction
And Upgrades
$10,559,362 International Airport Construction
Funds
40616 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Security, Safety and Access Control
Improvements
$5,500,000 Federal Receipts
$1,000,000 International Airport Construction
Funds
AMD38367 Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport:
Taxiway/Runway Improvements
$2,600,000 Federal Receipts
$1,500,000 International Airport Construction
Funds
AMD 36851 Unalaska: Airport Environmental Analysis
$1,500,000
43252 Unalaska: Chemical Storage Building
$800,000
Amd43238 Valdez: Airport Improvements
$2,700,000
Ms. Slagle overviewed these items.
10:26:53 AM
32610 Surface Transportation Program
$320,845,300 Federal Receipts
$400,000 Capital Improvement Projects Receipts
Ms. Slagle explained this item reflected the appropriation of
funding for the following allocation items.
AMD 40321 Alaska Highway: Milepost 1269 to 1314
Rehabilitation - Northway Junction to Tok
$16,630,000
10:27:45 AM
AMD41536 Advanced Commercial Vehicle Information Systems
and Networks (CVISN) Projects
$750,000
Ms. Slagle informed that this equipment would allow for the
tracking of commercial vehicles.
10:28:59 AM
Senator Dyson spoke to transmitters utilized to monitor border
crossings of commercial transport vehicles.
10:29:18 AM
41683 Alaska Highway: Milepost 1303.3 Bridge
Replacement - Tanana River
$20,850,000
38577 Alaska Marine Highway: Fleet Condition Survey
Update
$150,000
AMD40380 Alaska Marine Highway: Mainline Ferry
Refurbishment
$25,000,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:30:35 AM
Senator Dyson asked the aggregate funding expended for the
Alaska Marine Highway System for shoreside facilities, vessels,
tools, etc. For comparison purposes he requested similar
accounting of expenditures for highways and airports.
10:31:53 AM
Ms. Slagle told of a spreadsheet containing this data, which she
would forward to the Committee.
10:32:07 AM
Senator Dyson indicated intent to discuss with Co-Chair Stedman
the manner in which the Legislature should direct the activities
of the Department.
10:32:50 AM
Co-Chair Stedman informed of a review conducted by his staff of
the Department operating and capital budgets for the years 1999
through 2006. Expenditures for shoreside and fleetside had been
delineated and some anomalies had been identified and must be
accounted for. He intended to continue to review past
appropriations and interact with the Palin Administration to
forecast future appropriations. He would share his findings with
the Committee.
10:34:34 AM
Senator Dyson told of a road project located in the election
district that he represented in which residents disagreed with
the Department on the magnitude and impact of the project. The
Department appeared to disregard the concerns, claiming that it
must comply with federal regulations and expressing intent to
proceed with the project as originally planned. He described the
concerns with the proposed speed limit, turn lanes that were too
wide and bicycle lanes located on both sides of the roadway
which would require removal of a vegetative barrier.
Senator Dyson deemed the conflict a separation of powers issue.
The legislature and the Department were "at loggerheads" as to
the policy. He philosophized on the "voice" granted to a
community through those elected to represent it.
10:38:23 AM
Senator Elton identified a larger issue involving the Department
accepting "federal earmarks" for specific projects and
transferring the funding for other projects.
10:38:59 AM
Co-Chair Stedman stated that the Committee would further review
this matter at a later date. He also expressed concerns about
legislative appropriations made to specific projects, but which
the Department never completed.
10:39:15 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman commented, "I wish my problems in my district
were bike paths and edges."
10:39:29 AM
Senator Dyson reminded that the Committee had imposed
conditional language to the appropriation for the aforementioned
Eagle River road project the previous legislative session, which
the Department would "completely ignore". The matter should be
resolved this year before the capital budget legislation was
passed. He doubted that the federal funding would be withheld if
the community insisted on a reduced speed limit for an area with
school bus stops.
10:40:35 AM
AMD43332 Alaska Marine Highway: Metlakatla - Annette Bay
Construct New Terminal
$5,000,000
AMD43047 Alaska Marine Highway System: Reservations and
Manifest System
$2,000,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:41:05 AM
Senator Elton asked if the cost differential outlined in the
Summary and Statement of Need accompanying this item reflected
estimated costs to upgrade the existing system versus
replacement with a new system.
10:41:33 AM
Ms. Slagle replied that the amounts listed were estimates and
were partially dependant upon whether the current system would
be enhanced or a full replacement would be installed. Purchase
and installation of the current system cost between $3 and $4
million. She therefore assumed that efforts would be made to
retain that system.
AT EASE 10:42:42 AM / 10:46:40 AM
10:46:47 AM
AMD41697 Delete: Alaska Marine Highway: Terminal -
Gustavus Dock
$0
AMD34675 Akiachak: Sanitation Road Resurfacing
$1,500,000
43248 Anchorage: Bicycle Plan
$100,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:47:35 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman asked if bicycle planning was the
responsibility of the State and if so, he requested the bicycle
plans of other communities.
Ms. Slagle responded that this plan pertained to the Anchorage
Metropolitan Area Transportation Solutions (AMATS) program.
10:48:02 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman understood but asserted the matter should be
reviewed to determine whether it was the responsibility of the
State.
10:48:14 AM
Mr. Mackinnon interjected to inform that AMATS held significant
control over how funds allocated to the area were expended. It
could determine whether funding would be utilized for bicycle or
pedestrian related purposes.
10:48:40 AM
Co-Chair Hoffman suggested that the legislature, as "overseers"
should impose standards to be applied statewide. If the
governing body of a transportation system chose to "divert" from
the standards, the responsibility should be "local".
10:49:14 AM
Mr. Mackinnon pointed out that two seats on the five member
AMATS board of directors were designated for State officials.
Some decisions of the board were made based on a vote of three
to two with the State designated members voting in the minority.
10:49:43 AM
Co-Chair Stedman commented that several elected officials had
similar concerns.
10:49:53 AM
AMD40393 Anchorage: Chester Creek Trail Connection
$2,250,000
AMD42030 Delete: Anchorage: Eagle River Loop Road
Reconstruction - Old Glenn Highway to Eagle
River Road
$0
AMD40392 Delete: Anchorage: Eagle River Road
Rehabilitation - Milepost 5.3 to 12.6
$0
Ms. Slagle listed these items, noting the deleted projects were
included in the FY 07 supplemental appropriation legislation.
10:50:27 AM
43247 Anchorage: High-Priority Transportation Corridor
(HPTC) Prototype Plan
$150,000
Ms. Slagle listed this item.
10:50:41 AM
Senator Elton asked if this project was included in the AMATS.
Ms. Slagle affirmed.
Senator Elton suggested that AMATS projects be designated as
such in future documentation.
10:51:15 AM
43250 Anchorage: Integrated Roadnet
$100,000
43245 Anchorage: Old Glenn Highway Reconstruction
$6,200,000
AMD43246 Delete: Anchorage: Potter Marsh Trailhead and
Access Improvements.
$0
Ms. Slagle listed these items, noting the deleted item was
included in the FY 07 supplemental appropriation legislation.
10:52:05 AM
AMD39097 Anchorage: Old Seward Highway Reconstruction -
O'Malley Road to Brandon
$11,500,000
Senator Elton questioned the Project Description/Justification
statement for this project. It indicated that no significant
improvement had been made to this roadway since its construction
in the 1940s. However, he had witnessed significant improvements
in that portions had been expanded from two to four lanes.
Ms. Slagle clarified that "quite a bit" of the roadway was not
four lanes.
10:53:33 AM
Senator Elton opined that the roadway had experienced
significant improvement.
10:54:01 AM
Co-Chair Stedman directed the Department to further review this
matter.
10:54:18 AM
40396 Anchorage: Ridesharing and Transit Marketing
$670,000
39107 Anchorage: Traffic Control Signalization
$250,000
43251 Anchorage: Traffic Counts
$200,000
43249 Anchorage: Transit Centers and Facilities
$1,000,000
42032 Anchorage: Travel Options Program
$100,000
39106 Anchorage: Youth Employment Program for Transit
Stop and Trail Accessibility
$180,000
39163 Bethel: Chief Eddie Hoffman Highway -
Rehabilitation and Separated Pathway
$4,000,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:56:11 AM
41699 Central Region: National Highway System and
Non-National Highway System Pavement and
Bridge Refurbishment
$6,000,000
40534 Dalton Highway: Milepost 55.5 - Yukon River
Bridge Rehabilitation
$1,000,000
AMD36143 Dalton Highway: Milepost 175 to 209
Reconstruction
$17,000,000
43226 Dillingham: Downtown Streets Reconstruction and
Rehabilitation
$2,000,000
AMD43049 Electronic Transmission of Citation Data
$800,000
43224 Emmonak: Flood Permanent Repairs
$1,920,000
43260 Fairbanks North Star Borough: Low Sulfur Fuels
Impact Study
$350,000
43261 Fairbanks North Star Borough: North Pole Park and
Ride
$725,000
AMD43312 Fairbanks North Star Borough: Paratransit Van
Replacement
$330,000
AMD43313 Fairbanks North Star Borough: Transportation
Related PM2.5 Reductions
$910,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
10:59:05 AM
Ms. Slagle elaborated on item AMD 43313, informing that
particulate reductions must be achieved to meet federal
Environmental Protection Agency requirements for air in a
designated "non-attainment" area.
10:59:32 AM
40333 Fairbanks: University Avenue Widening
$5,100,000
43227 Gambell: Evacuation Road Repairs and Extension
$4,800,000
AMD39086 Glenn Highway: Gambell Street to McCarrey Street
Reconstruction
$11,000,000
AMD41539 Highway Analysis System - Geographic Information
System (HAS-GIS) Interface
$531,300
43230 Hyder: Causeway Reconstruction and Trestle
Replacement
$8,300,000
AMD36859 Illiamna: Nondalton Road Completion
$7,500,000
AMD40342 Juneau: Egan Drive - Sunny Point Intersection
Improvements
$1,500,000
AMD43314 Ketchikan: Airport Ferry M/V Bob Ellis
Replacement
$5,750,000
40351 Ketchikan: Buses and Bus Refurbishment
$200,000
AMD38569 Ketchikan: South Tongass Highway Widening
$900,000
AMD40536 Marshall: Airport Access Road Bridge
$1,700,000
AMD39371 Mat-Su: Trunk Road Reconstruction
$18,000,000
41700 Northern Region: National Highway System and
Non-National Highway System Pavement and
Bridge Refurbishment
$9,000,000
AMD43315 Seward Highway: Anchorage to Girdwood ITS Project
$1,500,000
AMD43050 Performance and Registration Information Systems
Management (PRISM)
$200,000
AMD41535 Road Weather Information System (RWIS) Deployment
$522,900
41701 Southeast Region: National Highway System
and Non-National System Pavement and Bridge
Refurbishment
$2,200,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
11:04:10 AM
Co-Chair Stedman requested an elaboration of item 41701.
11:04:18 AM
Ms. Slagle explained that a certain amount of funds were
identified for each region of the state. These funds were
provided for minor repairs, including filling pavement cracks,
drainage issues and guardrail replacements and repairs.
11:04:59 AM
Mr. Mackinnon clarified that the federal funds could be expended
for certain maintenance activities. Such use had previously been
restricted.
11:05:20 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked if the funding could be utilized for
updated design plans for roadways in Petersburg and Sitka to
include bicycle paths with gravel separators between the paths
and the road. He expressed concern for the safety of adults and
children in these communities.
11:05:57 AM
Mr. Mackinnon replied that the funding would be utilized for
activities such as crack sealing, and brush clearing. Safety
issues such as new guardrails or gravel separation would be
addressed differently.
11:06:19 AM
36445 Statewide: Bridge Inventory, Inspection,
Monitoring, Rehabilitation and Replacement
Program
$9,000,000
36190 Statewide: Bridge Scour Monitoring and Retrofit
Program
$800,000
38572 Statewide: Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Development
$300,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
11:07:04 AM
Co-Chair Stedman requested an explanation of the GIS system.
11:07:18 AM
Mr. Mackinnon defined the GIS as a sophisticated computer system
that would provide "pinpoint" data of the exact location of
areas in need of maintenance and areas in which accidents occur.
This would identify specific needs.
11:08:02 AM
Co-Chair Stedman spoke of funds appropriated to undertake
mapping of natural resources statewide. He asked if this item
would be integrated to the existing project or whether it would
be a separate endeavor.
11:08:31 AM
Mr. Mackinnon responded that this project would be separate and
would be confined to roadways and right-of-ways. The Department
of Natural Resources project focused on areas not located along
roadways.
Co-Chair Stedman asked of any plans to integrate the two
projects.
11:08:52 AM
Mr. Mackinnon replied that no duplication would occur; however,
the projects could possibly access data from each other. He
would research the issue.
11:09:08 AM
36196 Statewide: Highway Data Equipment Acquisition and
Installation
$1,200,000
36446 Statewide: Highway Fuel Tax Enforcement
$100,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
11:09:37 AM
Senator Elton had understood that the Department of Revenue
administered the fuel tax enforcement.
Ms. Slagle affirmed and clarified that the funding for the
effort was appropriated to the Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities for allocation to the Department of Revenue.
11:09:54 AM
39084 Statewide: Highway Safety Improvement Program
(HSIP)
$15,000,000
40373 Statewide: Intelligent Transportation Systems
Implementation Plan (IWAYS)
$1,500,000
38498 Statewide: Intelligent Transportation Systems
Operations and Maintenance (IWAYS)
$750,000
AMD35917 Statewide: Maintenance Management System
$839,100
36187 Statewide: National Highway Institute and Transit
Institute Training
$350,000 Federal Receipts
$400,000 Capital Improvement Project Funds
AMD36189 Statewide: Planning Work Program
$7,500,000
36191 Statewide: Research Program
$1,500,000
36450 Statewide: Scenic Byways Grants
$250,000
AMD40311 Statewide: Weigh-In Motion Equipment
$1,000,000
36192 Statewide: Urban Planning Program
$1,000,000
36366 Surface Transportation Preconstruction
$65,000,000
41684 Tok Cutoff: Milepost 2 Bridge Replacement -
Gakona River
$2,000,000
AMD43288 Truck and Bus Crash Data Improvement Program
$750,000
43225 Unalakleet: Beach Road Permanent Repairs
$1,575,000
AMD38304 Whittier: Maintenance and Operations
$2,000,000
AMD41537 Vehicle Crash Initiatives
$112,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
11:14:34 AM
40557 Congressional Earmarks
$4,250,000
43262 Fairbanks: Intermodal Distribution Pilot Grant
Program
$4,250,000
Ms. Slagle listed these items.
11:14:53 AM
Co-Chair Stedman asked if the final item was included as a
result of "additional funds that showed up" and why the change
was necessary.
11:15:06 AM
Ms. Slagle understood that this funding would be provided
directly to the community and that the Department had not
realized that the project would "be run through us" and
therefore required authorization. The omission was an oversight
of the Department's.
11:15:33 AM
46536 Advanced Commercial Vehicle Information Systems
And Networks (CVISN) Projects
$750,000
Co-Chair Stedman noted this item had not been presented and
asked if it was a "repeat number".
11:16:34 AM
Ms. Slagle outlined the item. It related to the Department's
"weigh in motion" project as well as "an exchange of information
concerning" "driver safety issues" with commercial carriers.
11:17:10 AM
Senator Elton clarified that item 40557 allowed for the receipt
of federal funds and item 43262 allowed for expenditure of those
same funds.
Ms. Slagle affirmed.
11:17:57 AM
Senator Thomas understood that little could be done to prevent
natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, and asked if
the Department considered relocation of roadways and facilities
in areas that experience repeated flooding.
11:18:40 AM
Mr. Mackinnon responded that the Department's mission "is
primarily on our assets". Therefore if a bridge was in jeopardy
due to recurring floods, the Department would make long term
improvements to prevent future damage from occurring.
Responsibility for the residents in such an area was held by the
Division of Emergency Services, although the Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities has assisted in numerous
times of disaster. Long term solutions were "at a much higher
level".
11:19:32 AM
Senator Thomas asked if better material could be utilized for
the Yukon River Bridge decking to reduce maintenance needs.
11:19:48 AM
Mr. Mackinnon reported that test patches of different material
were installed the previous winter with little success. The
Department would continue experimenting, but to date wood was
the best material.
11:20:24 AM
Senator Olson surmised that the concerns raised by Senator Dyson
on the road project at Eagle River had been discussed for a
number of years. Senator Olson asked if Mr. Mackinnon could
foresee a practical solution involving greater input at the
legislative and local level.
11:20:51 AM
Mr. Mackinnon recalled that the intent language inserted for the
Eagle River Loop project in the previous capital budget
legislation contained a number of design elements, which the
Department attempted to address and to accommodate as many as
possible. Some elements could not be incorporated due to
"certain engineering standards" adopted for "safety issues".
Senator Dyson had been apprised of these conflicts. Mr.
Mackinnon commented, "I don't know if it's a good idea to
compromise safety for other reasons other than safety." The only
"debatable" element related to the speed limit. The Department
did not arbitrarily set the speed limit; it was set to the speed
traveled at by 80 percent of the vehicles utilizing the roadway
during a testing period. Studies concluded that artificial
reduction of the speed limit resulted in 80 percent of the
drivers exceeding that limit, which becomes an enforcement
issue.
11:22:36 AM
Senator Olson asked if the witness was optimistic or pessimistic
that a solution could be achieved.
11:22:44 AM
Mr. Mackinnon assured that reasonable accommodations could be
made.
ADJOURNMENT
Co-Chair Bert Stedman adjourned the meeting at 11:23:03 AM
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