"As a Municipality, the Port is the most important piece of infrastructure we steward. As the most cost-effective way to get food and supplies to the vast majority of Alaskans, with a key role in national defense and emergency preparedness, responsible management of this project is critical,” said Mayor Suzanne LaFrance. "Alaska needs us to get this done, and we are delivering."  

The LaFrance team refreshed the project’s plan of finance, re-tooled the RFP, re-opened the contract to bidders, and worked closely with interested parties to address questions and concerns. With the Assembly’s unanimous approvals today, the financial architecture to support the project is in place, and the contract to construct Terminal 1 is in the hands of the builders.  

“If you’ve been on the journey of the Port for the past decade, you know these two items represent significant milestones,” said Assembly Vice Chair Meg Zaletel, who has championed the Port of Alaska Modernization Program in her six years on the Assembly. “$1.1 billion is a big number, and it’s essential. The Port is one of the most significant pieces of infrastructure in the State, and thanks to the strong partnerships we’ve built over many years, the Municipality is stepping up to ensure this vital infrastructure works and remains resilient long into the future.”