Alaska News and Views-It's About Energy  

Syrin

8/12/2008 7:56 PM UTC

Yes I support both bridges and I think a road into Juneau would eventually help lower the cost of living. First the Knik Arm Crossing. The bridge will link Anchorage with Point McKenzie. (In the area I live) For all sorts of reasons the bridge makes sense. Alaska is not even 50 years old. From economic expansion to providing an alternative route out of Anchorage in case of an emergency, choices including transportation choices are essential for healthy growth. The bridge is estimated to serve some 6,000 vehicles a day. However, that means 6,000 vehicles per day being pushed into an isolated area in the far reaches of the Mat-Su Borough. A borough that is already struggling to pay for existing needs like roads, schools and police protection within their population centers. Since 1996, the average home price in the Valley has doubled from $110,000 to roughly $220,000. This jump in housing costs has meant a dramatic rise in property taxes, making local taxpayers anxious about rising government costs. The Ketchikan Bridge The Ketchikan Airport Ferries, there is no doubt that a bridge would be more convenient for travelers when -30 degrees, airport employees and would inevitably free up additional land on the Ketchikan side currently designated for ferry launching and parking. It would also help expand the available land base for economic development and housing. At various times and weather conditions- the Ketchikan Airport Ferries were convenient and reliable. And unlike the Knik Arm Crossing, the amount of daily traffic will be far less due to the limited amount of development that can be expected to take place on Gravina Island. The bridge to Gravina Island requires the same analysis for state investment as the Knik Arm Crossing; determining the value it adds compared to the cost. And more importantly, is it a priority today with so many unmet needs? (Agreed, We should pay for these ourself, since Sarah raised 400% taxes on oil industry) I believe it was Congressman Young who did the dirty deed with the bridges, how dare he "earmark fed funds for his constituents", cause the state was not doing it's job. Bridges have NOTHING to do with Ted Stevens...