1. HOME
  2.  | 
  3. Industry
  4.  | 
  5. Government
  6.  | Alaska Senate Urges Railroad Crossing Through Canada

Alaska Senate Urges Railroad Crossing Through Canada

Apr 18, 2019 | Government, Monitor, Transportation

JUNEAU–The Alaska Senate unanimously voted for a resolution urging the US to issue a presidential permit allowing a railroad crossing between Alaska and Canada.

“A railroad connecting Alaska to Alberta would provide a huge boost to our state’s economy,” said Senator Shelley Hughes, R-Palmer, chairwoman of the Senate Transportation Committee. “Access to the North American railroad system would mean faster and more efficient shipping of goods, lowering the cost of living for all Alaskans.”

In 1914, the US Congress passed legislation approving construction of up to 1,000 miles of railroad in the Territory of Alaska, to connect coastal and interior regions to support development, rail service, and military operations. Little more than 500 miles of the Alaska Railroad have been built thus far.

In 2004, the 23rd Alaska Legislature authorized the Alaska Railroad Corporation to delineate a corridor between the existing railroad utility corridor and the Canadian border, as well as to investigate an extension of the Alaska Railroad from the border of Alaska and Canada to connect with the North American railroad system. This connection to Canada and the Lower 48 starts with a border crossing permit into Canada.

No state funds would be required for the construction of a railroad connecting Alaska to Alberta, Canada.

SJR 11 passed the Senate by a vote of 19-0 and is now on its way to the Alaska House of Representatives for consideration.

Current Issue

Alaska Business September 2023 Cover

September 2023

Industry Sponsor

Become an Industry Sponsor

Alaska Business September 2023 cover
In This Issue
Alaska Native Special Section
September 2023
Alaska Native regional, village, and urban corporations are major economic drivers across the state, nation, and in worldwide markets. In this issue we cover many of this sector's recent activities, how leadership is mentoring a new generation, and how these corporations share the wealth with their shareholders, descendents, regions, and villages. Also in this issue we take a moment to explore what's happening in western and northern parts of the state: the AU-Aleutians project, tourism opportunities, retail realities, and more. Enjoy!
Share This