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 |
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.
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