50-mile road designated a ‘mega-project’; cost estimate from highway agency at $491 million
By Pat Forgey | JUNEAU EMPIRE
New cost estimates boosting the Juneau Access Project to half a billion dollars has moved the road into the realm of “mega-projects,” a designation bringing with it new federal regulations.
A Federal Highway analysis of the 50.8 mile road up the east side of Lynn Canal is estimated to cost $491 million to complete, according to a Federal Highway Administration agency. So far $25 million has been spent. (more…)
Despite Alaska’s size, politics in the state almost always feels like small-town politics. When it comes to the debate over the proposed Lynn Canal road, some politicians always seem to be at the center of the argument.
In an exclusive interview from the upcoming film “Blue Highway,” State Senator Kim Elton discusses life in Alaska’s “southeast,” the fight over the proposed “Juneau Road,” and the changes it could bring to the region.
Senate endorses Kensington Mine, but not Juneau Road
Story last updated at 4/17/2009 – 11:52 am
By PAT FORGEY | JUNEAU EMPIRE
JUNEAU – The Alaska Senate today decided not to endorse the controversial Juneau Road, but went ahead with an endorsement of the more widely supported Kensington Mine. Sen. Lisel McGuire, R-Anchorage, sponsored Senate Resolution 8, calling on Gov. Sarah Palin to ensure the many permits for the mine, owned by parent company Coeur D’Alene based in Idaho, remain active. (more…)
Blue Highway begins as a film about a kayak trip tracing the historic Lynn Canal travels of John Muir, but becomes a study of both sides of the battle over the proposed Juneau access road. After more than three decades of debate, is there anything left to say, and can two sides separated by environmental, economic and cultural concerns ever come together? Read more
