Speaker Edgmon Praises Passage of Land Exchange Legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2017
Juneau – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation sponsored by Congressman Don Young to allow a land exchange as part of the effort to build a road to connect the communities of King Cove and Cold Bay on the Alaska Peninsula. Speaker of the House Rep. Bryce Edgmon (D-Dillingham) released the following statement upon learning the results of today’s vote.
“The weather on the Alaska Peninsula can turn dangerous quickly and getting to the Cold Bay airport for medivacs and other emergencies can be incredibly challenging and even impossible for the people of King Cove. A road connection to and all-weather airport can ensure emergency medical care is more easily within the reach for the residents of King Cove. This will save lives, which is why it has been a priority for over 30 years,” said Speaker Edgmon.
H.R. 218, which passed the U.S. House today by a vote of 248-179, authorizes a land exchange between the State of Alaska and the federal government to facilitate construction a one-lane gravel road between King Cove and Cold Bay. The 11-mile road would cross through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge.
H.R. 218 will now be taken up by the U.S. Senate.
For more information, please contact Alaska House Majority Coalition Press Secretary Mike Mason at (907) 444-0889.
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