The Alaska Legislature passed a budget last week that includes more than $35 million for Haines infrastructure projects including $3.2 million in matching grant funds for phase three of the Lutak Dock restoration project.
The borough secured $20 million in federal funds last fall to pay for the first two phases of the project. The borough assembly requested the funds from the state and set aside $2.4 million from the borough’s enterprise fund. Combining phases one through three will save the borough about $2 million, according to staff estimates.
Other appropriations include $23 million for Haines Airport resurfacing, $2 million for a Haines Airport Snow Removal Equipment Building. The Alaska Department of Transportation proposed the project that would rehabilitate the runway and taxiways and replace lighting, signage and culverts. The project would extend the runway’s life by at least 20 years, according to DOT officials.
State funding also includes $8.4 million for continuing work on the Haines Highway reconstruction project.
The state budget was passed Wednesday, May 18 and headed to Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s desk for final approval. The budget includes $3,200 payments to Alaskans that includes a one-time $650 energy relief assistance payment to every PFD recipient.