Legislature(2025 - 2026)ANCH LIO DENALI Rm
12/05/2025 12:30 PM Senate TRANSPORTATION
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Presentation(s): Dotpf Overview: Summer 2025 Construction and Ffy 2026 Outlook | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE TRANSPORTATION STANDING COMMITTEE
December 5, 2025
12:38 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Jesse Bjorkman, Chair
Senator Löki Tobin, Vice Chair
Senator Jesse Kiehl
MEMBERS ABSENT
Senator Bert Stedman
OTHER LEGISLATORS PRESENT
Representative Ted Eischeid
Senator Kelly Merrick
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
PRESENTATION(S): DOT OVERVIEW: SUMMER 2025 CONSTRUCTION AND FFY
2026 OUTLOOK
- HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
No previous action to record
WITNESS REGISTER
RYAN ANDERSON, Commissioner
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOTPF)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-presented the DOTPF overview: Summer 2025
Construction and FFY 2026 Outlook
KATHERINE KEITH, Deputy Commissioner
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOTPF)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-presented the DOTPF overview: Summer 2025
Construction and FFY 2026 Outlook
ACTION NARRATIVE
12:38:39 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN called the Senate Transportation Standing
Committee meeting to order at 12:38 p.m. Present at the call to
order were Senators Tobin and Chair Bjorkman. Senator Kiehl
joined thereafter, via teleconference.
^PRESENTATION(S): DOTPF Overview: Summer 2025 Construction and
FFY 2026 Outlook
PRESENTATION(S): DOTPF Overview: Summer 2025 Construction and
FFY 2026 Outlook
12:39:29 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN announced the consideration of the presentation:
DOT Overview: Summer 2025 Construction and FFY 2026 Outlook.
12:40:41 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN commended Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities (DOTPF) on securing federal funds that will allow the
continued work on meaningful transportation system upgrades.
12:41:17 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN requested that the presentation begin with slide
12.
12:41:47 PM
RYAN ANDERSON, Commissioner, Department of Transportation and
Public Facilities (DOTPF), Anchorage, Alaska, introduced
himself.
12:42:14 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON recalled discussions during the 2024
legislative session related to DOTPF and project delivery. He
emphasized that DOTPF gave those recommendations serious
consideration. He advanced to slide 12 and provided an overview
of the federal fiscal year (FFY) 2025 project delivery program
construction activity and goals. Slide 12 contains an
infographic, table, and bar chart indicating project types,
funding types, trends, and projections. Focused infrastructure
areas include bridges, pavement, new roads and realignments.
12:44:46 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 13, containing a bar
chart of all contract awards by type for 2022-2025:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2025 Project Delivery Program Review
Contract Awards
Contract Awards FFY 2025: $897,230,167
Regional:
• Northern $369,082,182
• Central $365,101,097
• Southcoast $163,046,888
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON noted previous concern related to
decreasing award amounts and pointed out that the amounts have
increased for FFY2025. In addition, he acknowledged concerns
related to the regional distribution of funds, particularly with
respect to the Northern region's share. He stated that DOTPF
feels the distribution amounts are fair. He highlighted recent
improvements which enabled greater project delivery in the
Southcoast region.
12:46:43 PM
SENATOR TOBIN noted that the emergency response to Typhoon
Halong would be addressed in upcoming slides; however, she
recalled news reporting about the state's responsibility to fund
school facilities in rural communities. She briefly discussed
the infrastructure issues at those facilities. She pointed out
that schools are often used as evacuation shelters; however, the
school buildings in several locations were found to lack basic
infrastructure such as running water and functioning restrooms.
She asked if DOTPF has recommendations for how the legislature
can respond to what she surmised will be an increasing need to
use those facilities during disaster declarations.
12:47:40 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON indicated that he is aware of the issue
and acknowledged that schools are likely to be a place where
communities can gather in disaster/emergency situations. He
explained that school districts are typically responsible for
school facilities, and the DOTPF Department Facility Services
(DFS) does not include school buildings. He indicated that
contractors are available for emergency situations.
12:48:32 PM
SENATOR TOBIN pointed out that people stay in school facilities
during an emergency, and emergency response teams use those
facilities as a base of operations. She emphasized that the
facilities are used by all [not only by students and staff]. She
expressed interest in any innovative approaches or discussions
occurring at the executive level to address the ways in which
current practices addressing this issue are insufficient. She
emphasized that keeping these facilities fully functioning - for
all the services they provide - is a collective responsibility.
12:49:34 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON expressed agreement and indicated that
this would also be discussed later in the presentation.
12:50:15 PM
KATHERINE KEITH, Deputy Commissioner, Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities (DOTPF), Anchorage, Alaska,
advanced to slide 14, containing a bar chart displaying funds
obligated by FFY for 2019-2025:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2025 Project Delivery Program
Obligations and Grants - Highways
FHWA Funds Obligated in FFY 2025: $922,258,501
FFY25 marks the highest level of federal highway funds
ever delivered in Alaska DOTPF history
Our team successfully obligated 100 percent of
available formula funds plus an additional $183
million through August redistribution.
Our performance reflects excellent collaboration with
FHWA Alaska Division and project readiness across all
regions.
12:52:02 PM
SENATOR KIEHL joined the meeting via teleconference.
12:52:17 PM
MS. KEITH highlighted the statewide efforts of DOTPF staff and
partners. She said that going forward, DOTPF will continue to
prioritize statewide collaborations alongside collaboration with
federal partners in order to maintain the current momentum.
12:52:36 PM
MS. KEITH advanced to slide 15, containing a table listing
funding allocations and a bar chart of funds obligated by
federal fiscal year (FFY) for 2019-2025:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2025 Project Delivery Program Review
Obligations and Grants - Airports
Airport Grants: $321.4 Million Secured in FFY25
FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and BIL funds
continue to increase, supporting safety, access, and
economic opportunity statewide.
Our performance reflects excellent collaboration with
FHWA Alaska Division and project readiness across all
regions.
MS. KEITH noted that the grant funding is used for both state
and international airports. She highlighted airport lighting
systems updates.
12:53:53 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 16, containing a bar
chart showing advance construction (AC) authorizations and
conversions by FFY for 2019-2025, and provided an overview of
advance construction and project delivery:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2025 Project Delivery Program Review
Advance Construction
Advance Construction (AC): A Tool for Project Delivery
• Allows DOTPF to begin projects under this
authority and convert to federal funds later
• Ensures continuous project delivery even when
federal obligation limits are reached
• FFY2025 balance: $576 million, reflecting a
strong project pipeline
• Balance managed carefully to align with federal
reimbursements and construction schedules
12:57:07 PM
At ease.
12:58:07 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN reconvened the meeting.
12:58:22 PM
SENATOR TOBIN asked to hear more about advance construction and
noted that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is
encouraging greater transparency regarding advance construction
projects and funding. She expressed concern about paying for
projects before the federal funds are in-hand. She noted federal
instabilities and asked what contingencies are in place in the
event that those projects are not fully funded.
12:59:39 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON said he is not aware of conversations
indicating that future formula funds are at risk. He said
advance construction uses future formula funds and briefly
explained the process. He noted discussions on surface
transportation reauthorization. He shared his understanding that
there has been discussion of making state funding more flexible.
He reiterated that he has not heard discussions about funding
reductions; however, inflation has been a topic of discussion
and increasing costs have resulted in states requesting a
funding increase.
1:00:52 PM
MS. KEITH said she is likewise unaware of discussions that would
indicate a reduction in future funding. She said some
individuals have advocated for increasing flexibility for all
fund types. With respect to advance construction (AC) she
explained that DOTPF uses several strategies to determine
whether AC funds are used. She briefly described those
strategies, highlighting cash flow strategies, restrictions in
fund types, and fund management tools that impact the decision
to us AC funds rather than obligating funds.
1:02:18 PM
SENATOR TOBIN briefly shared her understanding of current
project conversion rates and expressed concern about a gap
between actual project costs and AC funding received for a
particular project. She reiterated that FWHA recognized the need
for transparency in advance construction and emphasized the
importance of considering how DOTPF can be more transparent
about the AC process. She asked whether the federal funding has
ever failed to cover AC costs.
1:03:12 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied that he is not aware of any
instances in which AC projects were not fully funded. He offered
to follow up on this question. He said AC and conversions can be
found in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP).
1:04:02 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 17, containing a graph
of the FHWA National Highway Construction Cost Index (2012-2024)
and a bar chart showing trends in public infrastructure spending
by decade (1980-2023), and highlighted challenges to project
delivery and the ways DOTPF can use AC to work around some of
those challenges:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY 2026 Construction Pipeline
Challenges and Focus
FFY2026 Project Delivery Forecast and Outlook
• Inflation-adjusted program to maintain buying
power
• Strategic use of Advance Construction to sustain
delivery
• Continuous review of project timelines and
readiness
• Shelf-ready projects to capture federal
opportunities
• Focused on steady delivery despite rising
construction costs
1:06:02 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN asked about the difference between a "shelf-
ready" project and a "shovel-ready" project.
1:06:18 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied that both terms have the same
meaning.
1:06:27 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 18, containing an
infographic displaying construction projects DOTPF tentatively
plans to advertise within the next 12 months:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY 2026 Construction Pipeline
Forecasted Contract Awards
Program Outlook
• 91 projects planned for advertisement: $670M
$1.1B total value
• 60 highway, 19 airport, and 8 other
infrastructure projects
• 24 additional shovel-ready projects valued at
$200$314M ready for advancement
1:07:53 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 19, containing a table
showing capital major program expenditures by FFY (2023-2025).
He indicated that this slide would address an earlier question
related to contractor payments. He said the expenditures include
statewide contractor payments by program.
1:08:13 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON identified the following acronyms on slide
19:
AMHS - Alaska Marine Highway System
DRER - Disaster Recovery Emergency Response
FAPT - federal airport projects
FHWY - federal highway Projects
GRNT - other Grants
PLRS - planning and research projects
RMBS - reimbursable Projects
SAPT - state-funded airport projects
SHWY - state funded highway projects
FTAG - FTA rural ferry grants
XMPT - exempt expenditures
1:09:25 PM
MS. KEITH noted that contractor payments and contract awards for
Typhoon Halong recovery efforts are not included in this
presentation. She advanced to slide 20:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2026 Fiscal Outlook
Surface & Air Transportation
Federal Programs Total Combined Investment: ~$1.98B
Surface Transportation (STIP Amendment 2)
Total Revenue (FFY2026): $1.71B
• FHWA Formula Programs: $966M
• Federal Transit Administration: $160M
• Federal Transit Discretionary: $171M
• Advance Construction (State-Funded): $285M
• Other Federal/Discretionary: $49M
• State Match: $76M
Programmed Obligations: $1.45B
Program Highlights
• NHPP: $363M - Core preservation & modernization
• STBG: $194M - Local access & connectivity
• Bridge Programs: $80M - State and off-system
• HSIP, Carbon Reduction, CMAQ: $94M
• Discretionary/Competitive Grants: $68M
Air Transportation (FAA AIP & BIL)
Estimated Federal Funding (FFY2026): ~$272M
• Airport Improvement Program (Apportionment,
Entitlements, and Discretionary): ~$177M
• BIL Infrastructure Grants: ~$95M
Program Focus
• Alaska International Airport System (Anchorage /
Fairbanks)
• Rural Airports (235 total count)
Focus on
• Airfield rehabilitation, pavement and lighting
• Safety and compliance upgrades
• Rural airport access and maintenance support
1:11:30 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 21, containing a table
displaying the state fiscal year (FY) 2026 capital match
summary:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2026 Project Delivery
State Match Projections
Current Status
• $70M state match shortfall following FY2025
legislative actions and vetoed reappropriations
• DOTPF adjusted STIP - ~25 projects deferred 1-3
years to remain within available match
• Continuing delivery through carryforward match
and Advance Construction authority
Program Implications
• DOTPF can still obligate the program in FFY2026
by paying down Advanced Construction balances.
• Without new match, fewer projects will move to
contract award, limiting construction activity
• Deferred work includes major rehabilitation and
safety projects statewide
When Does Match Run Out?
• Timing depends on bid schedules and obligation
pace
• Match balances sustain early FY2026, but a fix is
needed to maintain momentum
1:13:47 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN asked for confirmation of his understanding that
the funding for Cascade Point Road is from the general fund and
DOTPF did not use federal funds for that project.
1:14:59 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON confirmed that project is state funded
through Juneau Access Appropriation Funds. He briefly discussed
the funding for that project, which he noted was previously in
STIP.
1:15:22 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN asked if this is the typical process for this
type of project.
1:15:27 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON answered by referencing the Katlian Bay
project, which is similar.
1:15:34 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN said he is unfamiliar with that project and asked
for additional information.
1:15:37 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON briefly discussed the Katlian Bay project.
He explained that this project used only state-appropriated
funds.
1:16:02 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN asked why state funding was chosen over federal
funding for those projects.
1:16:30 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied state funding comes with certain
advantages. He said that state-funded projects are subject to
different criteria than federally funded projects and the latter
have additional restrictions. He explained that state funding
speeds up project delivery.
1:17:08 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN expressed understanding regarding why this would
be a benefit given the politics surrounding the project;
however, he expressed uncertainty about the rationale behind
choosing state funding for the road. He highlighted the timeline
for the project and noted that the public comment period is
still open. He acknowledged that using state funding removes any
federal requirements or limitations on those projects. However,
he expressed concern about using state funds for projects that
would significantly change the cultural landscape of a community
and that would potentially require the demolition of culturally
significant structures or locations. He suggested that it is
more reasonable to use state funds on projects of cultural
significance to the local community.
1:18:36 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON expressed understanding. He briefly
discussed the scope of appropriations for the Cascade Point Road
project and provided a description of the project location. He
noted upcoming fiscal challenges to the Alaska Marine Highway
System (AMHS). He explained that the Cascade Point Road would
increase transportation efficiency of AMHS by reducing the
length of the ferry run.
1:19:53 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN indicated that this would be addressed at a
future committee hearing. He referenced the economics of both
the project and current ferry runs and opined that there is
interest in understanding whether the road would ultimately
result in a savings for the state. He acknowledged that this is
an issue of high importance for many Alaskans who want to ensure
the responsible use of state funding.
1:20:55 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON continued to discuss slide 21. He
highlighted the federal toll credit program and provided a brief
overview. He emphasized that the use of toll credits saves the
State of Alaska from providing a general fund match. He briefly
discussed the use of toll credits for the AMHS Tustumena
Replacement Vessel project. He said the toll credit program has
accrued close to $70 million, which DOTPF can continue to apply
towards state match. He emphasized the importance of innovative
methods to secure match that do not rely on state general funds.
1:22:37 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN returned to the Cascade Point Road project
discussion. He directed attention a study by King Economics that
showed the project to be uneconomical. He asked Commissioner
Anderson if he agrees with that analysis and requested an
explanation for any disagreement. He opined that Alaskans are
concerned that the State of Alaska is moving forward with the
Cascade Point project despite the economic concerns. He asked
Commissioner Anderson to explain why investing in the project
makes fiscal sense for Alaskans, in light of the aforementioned
study.
1:24:07 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON said he interpreted the study by King
Economics differently. He opined that the study provided a good
analysis. He acknowledged discussions in support of performing
economic analyses on various ferry terminals and suggested that
this should be done on all ferry terminals. He explained that
DOTPF is a public agency and, as such, focuses on more than
economics. He listed the benefits of shorter ferry runs, both
for passengers and for the State of Alaska, highlighting time
and money savings.
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON briefly discussed the long-range
transportation plan developed with the Alaska Marine Highway
Operations Board (AMHOB) and acknowledged concerns related to
changes AMHOB made to the transportation plan to reflect the
Cascade Point project. He emphasized that the overall vision of
the long-term transportation plan is to create more roads and
shorter ferry runs. He stated that Cascade Point fits that
equation. He said DOTPF is considering Cascade Point from a
larger, system-wide perspective. He expressed a willingness to
evaluate the economics further and said he would also consider
the Auke Bay ferry terminal (and others). He reiterated that
economics is not the sole criterion used to determine whether a
project would benefit AMHS.
1:25:58 PM
SENATOR KIEHL pointed out that DOTPF previously studied the
economics of AMHS and found that AMHS delivers roughly $2 of
economic activity for every $1 the State of Alaska invests in
AMHS. He said the discussion of economics is related to the
earlier discussion of projects that use federal funding versus
those that do not. He opined that it is understandable for DOTPF
to rankle at the restrictions that come along with federal
funding. However, he pointed out that historically, the
legislature has appropriated unrestricted general funds (UGF)
and DOTPF has federalized those projects. He expressed interest
in learning the department's method for deciding when to
federalize a project versus when to use state general funds. He
opined that understanding the equation behind this decision
would help Alaskans understand how DOTPF is using the funding.
1:27:31 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON concurred. He briefly discussed reasons
DOTPF might federalize projects that began as UGF projects and
offered examples. He highlighted increasing costs as one reason
for federalization. He expressed willingness to continue these
discussions.
1:28:32 PM
MS. KEITH advanced to slide 22, containing an infographic
illustrating the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program
(STIP) timeline:
[Original punctuation provided.]
FFY2026-2029 Statewide Transportation Improvement
Program (STIP)
• Avoid delays caused by major multi-year approvals
• Better alignment with local/regional planning
(Municipal Planning Organizations- MPOs,
Transportation Improvement Plans - TIPs)
• Greater responsiveness and flexibility to
changing priorities
• Improved transparency and public engagement
• More reliable fiscal constraint and realistic
scheduling
MS. KEITH noted that the FFY2026-2029 STIP 45-day comment period
would begin prior to commencement of the 2026 legislative
session. She briefly discussed the rolling STIP and why DOTPF
chose the FFY2026-2029 dates. She highlighted STIP Amendment two
and changes to available state matching funds, which required
STIP adjustments due to the resulting fiscal constraints. She
explained that DOTPF maintained full project funding by
extending project timelines and leveraging advance construction
conversion in FFY2026. She stated that DOTPF can successfully
obligate its full program; however, the decrease in available
funding will impact projects that go to construction in 2026.
She said that prioritization of projects ahead of the 2026
season is one goal of the 45-day comment period. She explained
that, following legislative discussions, DOTPF will create an
additional STIP amendment (with a 30-day period for
adjustments). She emphasized the importance of flexibility to
allow for fiscal changes in order to create the best possible
program.
1:32:42 PM
SENATOR TOBIN asked about substantive recommendations related to
the previous STIP. She asked whether DOTPF has evaluated those
recommendations and whether they will be incorporated into the
upcoming STIP. She highlighted FHWA recommendations related to
the process DOTPF uses to produce the final list of prioritized
projects and how those projects are selected and programmed into
STIP, as well as the recommendation to create a simplified
public process. She wondered how DOTPF plans to meet those
recommendations. In addition, she noted that the upcoming STIP
public comment period would occur over a holiday weekend and
questioned whether the timing would allow for robust public
engagement and feedback. She emphasized the importance of public
engagement in the process.
1:34:27 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON expressed pride in STIP improvements. He
said DOTPF received an award from the American Association of
State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) for,
"Modernizing Alaska's transportation project delivery,
transparency, and industry partnerships." He emphasized that
this was not solely based on STIP but was instead based on
changes DOTPF made to the entire system. He gave a brief
overview of the positive changes DOTPF made to its programming,
including greater transparency. He acknowledged the FHWA
recommendation to simplify and said DOTPF is attempting to do
so; however, STIP and associated processes are somewhat
complicated.
1:36:03 PM
MS. KEITH added that in the summer of 2025, DOTPF received an
additional AASHTO award for public engagement. She stated that
STIP would have a very robust public engagement period as a
result of the tools and strategies implemented by the DOTPF
communications team. She acknowledged that the comment period
would include a holiday but reiterated that DOTPF expects high
engagement during the 45-day public engagement period due to the
communications team's significant advance planning. She
indicated that the STIP public comment period was delayed due to
disaster response efforts. She briefly discussed improvements to
public engagement and said this is a high priority. She said
that if DOTPF does not receive the expected amount of public
engagement, it would extend the public comment period. She added
that DOTPF hopes to have public comment and feedback available
when 2026 legislative committee hearings commence. She noted
that the public comment period would impact the STIP strategy
and timeline.
1:38:00 PM
SENATOR TOBIN expressed appreciation for the national
recognition of DOTPF and recognized the hard work of dedicated
DOTPF employees. She pointed out that in-state disruptions have
caused frustration and emphasized the State of Alaska's
responsibility to stakeholders. She asked for additional
information regarding improvements made to the tribal
consultation process.
1:38:37 PM
MS. KEITH highlighted the new tribal engagement team. She
explained that previously, one DOTPF employee was tasked with
tribal engagement. She briefly described the team makeup. She
said the tribal engagement team holds regular meetings and is
working to develop strategy that will later be included in STIP.
She added that DOTPF is developing a book to guide staff on
innovative ways and best practices for tribal engagement.
1:39:43 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON added that in recent years DOTPF has held
a session at the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) convention
and is working to improve tribal engagement policies. He briefly
discussed the policies. He said DOTPF has also been engaged with
tribal transportation programs. He noted nuances with tribal
partnerships and highlighted several ways DOTPF is partnering
with, and funding, tribes as they work on creating cultural
resources. He recognized the need for internal tribal relations
training. He indicated plans for a robust internal training as
well as online resources for contractors and consultants who
work with tribes on behalf of DOTPF.
1:42:41 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN turned the discussion to the public's perception
of road quality. He highlighted the perception of roads in poor
or even dangerous condition and offered examples. He asked how
those projects move from a perceived need to a plan outlined in
STIP.
1:44:30 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON answered by addressing the examples
offered by Chair Bjorkman. He noted that DOTPF does monitor
areas of concern; however, resources are limited. He explained
that in one instance, the local rural planning organization
brought the issue to the attention of DOTPF. Department
engineers confirmed that repair is needed and DOTPF added the
project to STIP. He explained that one way to address these
issues is for regional groups to bring regional priority
projects to DOTPF. He said multiple entities with competing
interests in an area can make it difficult for the department to
determine where to focus limited resources. Another way to bring
projects to the department's attention is to utilize the DOTPF
asset management program. He said DOTPF has a variety of funding
pots that can apply to specific types of projects, which can
impact prioritization.
1:47:39 PM
MS. KEITH added that DOTPF maintains an active list of needs,
and these are included in the department's project database. She
explained that these are included in department's long-range
transportation plan, or the 10-year plan. This helps DOTPF to
balance critical, urgent needs (i.e. those impacting public
life, health, and safety) and those that fall under the
proactive asset management plan (a part of the 10-year plan that
applies to general pavement, bridge, and road conditions and
maintenance).
1:48:28 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN opined that it is important for the public to
have ways to track the progress of those projects as they move
from conceptualization to STIP, construction, and completion. He
briefly commented on project optics and offered an example to
show how DOTPF actions, while an improvement, have not
adequately addressed the issue. He opined that the public would
benefit from increased communication about project plans and
emergency plans for projects that pose a safety concern.
1:51:19 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON returned to slide 2, containing a map of
the Typhoon Halong impact area. He provided a brief overview of
the storm events that occurred on the west coast Alaska in
October 2025. He detailed the impact those storms had on local
communities, which do not have road access and thus rely heavily
on air travel. He stated that DOTPF tracked the storms and has
staff in those communities. He highlighted the role of
department contractors in the emergency response. He said DOTPF
used all available resources in its emergency response and is
continuing to participate in recovery efforts in those
communities. He briefly discussed the way DOTPF is using
Incident Command System (ICS) structures, which unify command
and resources across state agencies.
1:54:42 PM
MS. KEITH advanced to slide 3 and provided an overview of the
DOTPF emergency response to the impacts of Typhoon Halong in
western Alaska:
[Original punctuation provided.]
DOTPF Metrics
West Coast Storm 2025: Team Response
• 50+ Communities impacted by two typhoon surge
storms
• 250+ DOTPF Employees Statewide
• Active Incident Command Structure across
operations, logistics, planning, finance and
community engagement.
• Leading statewide data-assessment efforts
for all agencies.
• 15+ Contractors Rebuilding Infrastructure
• 11+ Air Carriers Delivering Critical Supplies
• 55+ Suppliers
• 1 million+ lbs. Materials Delivered So Far
Working through the Statewide Emergency Operations
Center, in collaboration with state agencies,
nonprofit and private partners, the Governor's Office,
and federal agencies to restore systems and assist
affected communities.
1:56:25 PM
MS. KEITH continued to discuss slide 3 and noted that DOTPF has
improved its disaster response technology. She highlighted the
drone program, which provided live drone coverage in over 35 of
the impacted communities. That data was provided to the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). She emphasized that the
updated response technology enabled a faster, more thorough
response to Typhoon Halong. She expressed hope that the data,
which offers a clear image of the before and after conditions,
would support both the individual and public assistance FEMA
provides. She briefly discussed the work done by contractors,
air carriers, and suppliers. She noted that communities are
still experiencing drinking water and food shortages.
MS. KEITH continued to discuss slide 3. She said the department
expects work to continue through the winter to restore basic
functions within the affected communities. She highlighted
several of the most impacted communities. She said DOTPF is
working to support school infrastructure repair; this includes
repairs to the electrical and water filtration systems as well
as insulation repair. She expressed a willingness to come up
with additional ways DOTPF can assist with repairs. She noted
that 12 miles of board road are in need of complete
reconstruction.
1:59:11 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON briefly discussed how the length of
airport runways impacts disaster response. He highlighted the
use of helicopters and barges and commended the contractors for
their work. He noted that this is a learning experience for all
involved. He briefly discussed Automated Surface Observing
Systems (ASOS) outages and repairs along with repairs to airport
lighting. He indicated that DOTPF is addressing issues as they
arise. He stated that the department is focused on airports and
roads - key transportation areas in need of repair - as well as
assisting with residential housing and public schools. He
indicated a willingness to help where possible.
2:01:41 PM
SENATOR TOBIN expressed gratitude for the work of DOTPF and
shared anecdotes she received from department employees deployed
to western Alaska as part of the disaster response team. She
highlighted community resilience and the challenge of working
during the winter months. She expressed a desire to hear
feedback from DOTPF and other departments about what the State
of Alaska can learn from this experience. She emphasized the
importance of preparation and planning. She surmised that large
storms are likely to occur with greater frequency and intensity
and expressed hope that the State of Alaska would have a more
coordinated response in the future as a result of what DOTPF is
learning as it coordinates the response to Typhoon Halong.
2:03:10 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON concurred and said DOTPF is paying
attention. He commented that engineers can also gather important
information by noticing which structures withstood the storm.
2:03:29 PM
SENATOR KIEHL praised the DOTPF response to Typhoon Halong. He
noted that many DOTPF staff left their regular work to deploy as
part of the emergency response. He acknowledged that emergency
response is the highest priority and asked where DOTPF would
likely experience delays because of the emergency response to
western Alaska.
2:04:33 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 4, containing an
infographic illustrating DOTPF structure. According to the
infographic, DOTPF is broken down into four main sections:
Strategic Assets, Infrastructure Development, Maintenance and
Operations, and Cross-Functional Support.
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON highlighted the department's ability to be
agile and to shift priorities when Alaska is faced with
challenges. He explained that DOTPF staff from across the state
have helped during the Typhoon Halong emergency response
process. He said department staff have delegated tasks where
possible. He said he would continue to evaluate areas of concern
and noted that it is early in the federal fiscal year. He
pointed out that DOTPF also hires contractors who work alongside
department employees. He emphasized that emergency response
provides important experience and education for DOTPF staff and
briefly discussed the associated advantages. He indicated that
DOTPF is paying attention to any areas that may have fallen
behind as a result of the disaster response.
2:06:49 PM
SENATOR KIEHL indicated that an end of year summary would be
helpful, particularly with respect to which projects are behind,
where additional assistance would allow DOTPF to catch up on
those projects, and where expectations for projects may need to
shift. He emphasized that the department set aside many projects
to prioritize disaster response and has been accomplishing much
in that regard.
2:07:32 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 5, containing a map of
Alaska's liquified natural gas (LNG) transportation corridor. He
briefly discussed the role of DOTPF in supporting Alaska's LNG
pipeline. He described how the pipeline would follow the Alaska
highway system. He highlighted the operations impact and the
construction component. He noted the various crossing locations
for both the Dalton and Parks highways and discussed how the
construction of those crossings would impact the public.
2:10:03 PM
SENATOR TOBIN observed that slide 5 considers LNG for export and
asked how DOTPF is planning for the potential impacts of LNG for
in-state use (e.g. the proposed Fairbanks spur).
2:10:29 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied that the Fairbanks spur would
increase traffic on the Parks Highway. The route is undetermined
and thus the construction impacts are unclear. He briefly
discussed his understanding of the trucks and their cargo, and
how that would impact road usage.
2:11:55 PM
SENATOR TOBIN asked who pays for the crossings and additional
infrastructure needs. She wondered if those are part of the LNG
project or are programmed into STIP and asked about the
necessary legislative response.
2:12:24 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied that some of the analyses are done
routinely by DOTPF and briefly discussed those. He noted that
this would be a large project that may require additional
funding. He said the department is seeking a unified approach
and briefly discussed the construction process. He said that
DOTPF would know more once the timeline is available.
2:13:46 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 6, containing bar graphs
displaying bridge and pavement condition by year. He noted that
there is some question regarding whether DOTPF can has
sufficient capacity to handle the gas line construction. He
indicated the infographic on slide 6 and said that DOTPF is
exceeding federal metrics and is on a positive trajectory. He
implied that the department is prepared for the level of
construction the LNG pipeline would require. He acknowledged
that DOTPF will need to repair some locations; however, the
ability to shift and allocate funds will help to address areas
of concern. He discussed bridges and referenced the Manh Cho
project, which helped improve bridge management. He stated that
DOTPF is paying close attention to bridge assets.
2:15:15 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN briefly discussed construction standards in
Alaska and contrasted this with construction standards in other
states. He offered examples to illustrate how roads are
evaluated in other states. He asked about strategies to ensure
Alaskan roads last longer. He asked whether DOTPF could
potentially take on quality assurance measures that would
lengthen the lifespan of Alaska's roadways.
2:17:28 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied that DOTPF has utilized many of
these practices. He briefly discussed practices in rural Alaska
and suggested a future presentation to focus on asphalt would be
helpful.
CHAIR BJORKMAN indicated his agreement.
2:18:20 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 7 and discussed
Fairbanks' role in the transport of Alaska LNG:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Fairbanks Gateway to the North
DOTPF maintains and improves the multimodal
connections that enable Fairbanks' role as Alaska's
inland logistics hub. Critical Connections:
• Alaska Railroad Rail Yard
• Johansen Expressway
• Parks Highway
• Steese Highway / Expressway
• Richardson Highway
Fairbanks was the core staging hub during TAPS
constructionand remains Alaska's inland logistics hub
today. It's where the rail line ends and the Haul Road
begins, supporting major pipe and materials transfer
from rail to highway. Under HB 119, a gas spur to
Fairbanks is mandated, reinforcing its role as a
critical intermodal node for future LNG development.
2:19:30 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 8, containing a map of
Dalton Highway:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Dalton Highway - Strategic Backbone
The Dalton Highway is Alaska's energy corridor
connecting the state's interior, pipeline
infrastructure, and Arctic resources to the national
network.
Operational Realities
• 1,000-mile round trip from Fairbanks to Prudhoe
Bay
• Heavy maintenance demand: gravel, aggregate, and
waysides
• Revoking PLO 5150 ensures long-term access to
material sites and staging areas
• Harsh conditions require constant investment to
maintain reliability
Investment in Corridor Resilience
• Capital Investment 2015-2025: $465.6 million
• Planned 2026-2031: $454 million
• Total (2015-2031): ~$920 million
2:21:12 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 9, containing a map of
the Kenai Spur Road reroute:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Kenai Spur Reroute - Readiness Pathway
Supports LNG facility access, community safety, and
long-term coastal resilience.
This project ensures continuous surface access to the
LNG export site and nearby industrial areas
integrating with marine terminal and highway systems
vital for Alaska's energy export readiness.
Project Overview
• 3.9 miles of new two-lane highway construction
• Realignment supports LNG facility expansion and
safety access
• Avoids active coastal erosion and unstable soils
• Maintains community and industrial access during
future buildout
Estimated Cost: $30-$40 million
2:21:45 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN asked about the timeline for the Kenai Spur
Reroute project.
2:21:59 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON replied that it would likely take 3-5
years to reach shovel-ready construction status under a federal
funding scenario.
CHAIR BJORKMAN commented that 3-5 years is a long time.
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON said a state-funded scenario would
accelerate the timeline. He added that additional funding
sources for this and other Alaska LNG related projects could
accelerate those projects.
2:22:35 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 10, containing a map
showing Alaska's interior transport network:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Mat-Su Logistics Corridor
Building Alaska's Intermodal Future
Key Strategic Assets
• Port MacKenzie Deep-draft port and intermodal
connector
• Point MacKenzie Rail Extension ties port to
Alaska Railroad mainline
• West Susitna Access Road Opens access to
recreation, and pipeline construction /
maintenance access.
• AKLNG Pipeline Corridor West of Susitna River
• Knik Arm Crossing (Bridge or Tunnel) Future
fixed link to Anchorage, completing
Southcentral's logistics loop.
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel Development
2:23:53 PM
COMMISSIONER ANDERSON advanced to slide 11 and highlighted
Alaska's aviation infrastructure:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Aviation Infrastructure
Essential to Alaska's Energy and Logistics Network
Haul Road Airports:
• Deadhorse
• Happy Valley
• Galbraith Lake
• Chandalar Shelf
• Coldfoot
• Prospect Creek
• Livengood Camp
Parks Highway Airports:
• Nenana Municipal
• Clear
• Healy River
• Summit
• Willow
International Cargo and Passenger Hubs:
• Fairbanks International Airport
• Anchorage International Airport
Aviation provides critical logistics support for
Alaska's energy and infrastructure development from
cargo and workforce transport to emergency response
and construction staging.
Anchorage and Fairbanks serve as international cargo
hubs, while rural airports along the corridor sustain
operations and community access during construction.
2:24:42 PM
CHAIR BJORKMAN thanked the presenters and invited them to return
for more detailed presentations on STIP, match funding, and
other topics covered broadly in today's presentation.
2:26:08 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Bjorkman adjourned the Senate Transportation Standing
Committee meeting at 2:26 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| 20251205 Senate Transportation final.pdf |
STRA 12/5/2025 12:30:00 PM |