Finish the Projects We’ve Started – Repealing capital funds for the U-Med/Northern Access Road
For Immediate Release: January 24th, 2014
JUNEAU – Today, Senator Berta Gardner (D-Anchorage) and Representative Andy Josephson (D-Anchorage) filed legislation to repeal state funds for the U-Med/Northern Access Road project. Senator Gardner and Rep. Josephson represent the University area which is the location of the U-Med/Northern Access Road.
“I have heard from many passionate members of our community who oppose the Northern Access Road, and I have heard from those who support the project,” said Representative Josephson.
“Ultimately though, I believe we should focus on finishing the projects we have started before we begin expensive new ones,” said Rep. Josephson. “The projected costs of the U-Med/Northern Access Road have grown since the project was funded last year and construction hasn’t even begun.”
Of the Senate companion, Senator Gardner said she would “like to see that money come back to the state. We’re in a time of fiscal uncertainty right now. If we’re going to build a road, let’s do it right. A $22 million cost overrun, before the project’s even started doesn’t bode well for this road, to say nothing of the neighborhood and community outcry against the project, which has been loud and clear.”
“With this much neighborhood outcry and the skyrocketing costs, the state is better off putting its dollars toward finishing other projects,” said Representative Geran Tarr (D-Anchorage). “There are plenty of ways to use this money that would better serve my constituents.”
The affected community councils include Midtown, University Area, Tudor Area, Campbell Park, Airport Heights, and Rogers Park. Of those, University Area, Airport Heights, and Rogers Park have passed resolutions in staunch opposition to the project.
For more information contact Senator Gardner (907) 465 – 4930 or Representative Josephson at (907) 465 – 4939.
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