FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) – The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has awarded $177 million in federal grants for the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS).
In a press release, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan along with Representative Mary Sattler Peltola, announced the award on Friday stating that it was only made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
The IIJA plans to reinforce crucial ferry service operations within the state, as well as projects to improve effectiveness.
“Today’s announcement is yet more good news for Alaskans as we continue to receive significant federal investment for our marine highway system…My top priority when negotiating the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act was federal support to revitalize and restore our beloved Blue Canoes. Growing up using the ferry system in Southeast, I know how integral AMHS is for Alaskans in our coastal communities as well as throughout the state. Our coastal communities deserve to be connected year-round with consistent and reliable service. I thank the FTA for recognizing this critical need and urge the State to maximize these investments, so this vital transportation system can reach its full potential.”
“The vast majority of our communities have no connection to the road system, which makes the Alaska Marine Highway System as essential in parts of our state as roads and bridges are in most of the country… The 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law that the Alaska congressional delegation helped write is delivering another $177 million to bolster the reliability and safety of this vital system that thousands of Alaskans rely upon. I want to again commend Senator Murkowski for her success in prioritizing Alaska’s ferry system in that important legislation. This announcement is in addition to a January 2023 award of more than $285 million allocated by the same program. Through my seats on the Commerce and EPW Committees, I will continue to fight for significant investments in Alaska’s maritime infrastructure and vessels, and ensure that the federal government fulfills its responsibility to support the transportation needs of our great state.”
“Today is a great day for Alaska’s Marine Highway System, which is the backbone for many coastal Alaskans’ way of life…This grant award is an immense step in the right direction toward improving Alaska’s transportation system and helping to foster strong, resilient, and healthy communities.”
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