Cordova, Tatitlek, and Chenega Awarded Ferry Dock Funding
JPRESCOTT | iSTOCK
Three communities in Prince William Sound are getting modifications to their ferry docks, thanks to some federal funding. The new infrastructure will enable newer ships in the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) fleet to visit Cordova, Tatitlek, and Chenega.
Sound Investment
The US Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration awarded $28.2 million from the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). The grant application was submitted by the Prince William Sound Economic Development District (PWSEDD) in partnership with the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF).
The Prince William Sound Dock Modifications project includes $12.6 million for Chenega, $10.5 million for Tatitlek, and $6.2 million for Cordova, totaling $29.3 million including some funds beyond the PIDP grant.
The docks in Chenega, Tatitlek, and Cordova were designed to work with ferries that are no longer active on the AMHS schedule. Chenega and Tatitlek are served by M/V Aurora, and Cordova is served by M/V Aurora and M/V Tustumena.
“The Alaska Marine Highway is an integral part of Alaska’s coastal communities,” says DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “Our vision for the future of AMHS is that all our vessels should be able to serve all of our communities. This grant moves us toward that finish line.”
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The Tatitlek improvements include new end-loading ferry dock structures, including a vehicle transfer bridge and bridge support float. The Chenega improvements include a new terminal building as well as a pile-supported approach dock structure, vehicle transfer bridge, bridge support float, and two mooring dolphins. And the Cordova improvements include fixed-fender mooring dolphins and catwalks and modifications to stern berth to accommodate the stern-loading ferries.
The grant application from PWSEDD is one of several piloted under a new partnership approach among local governments, the Alaska Municipal League, and DOT&PF.
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