Infrastructure

With the forecasted opening of the Northern Passage, Alaska will assume an ever more important and strategic position in America's economy and defense. With this growth, I will work to make sure that federal infrastructure in Alaska is built in a manner that benefits the people of Alaska. In Congress, I will fight tooth and nail for important projects and will work to carry them out in a socially and environmentally sound way. Consistent with this, I vow to:

• Fight for the Alaska Gas Pipeline
  I have advocated for an All-Alaska Gas Pipeline for many years, long before my opponents voiced opinions on the issue. More recently, with TransCanada and BP/ConocoPhillips respective proposals, I have taken the lead on the Gas Pipeline by proposing important policy measures and pledging to work with industry leaders and Alaska lawmakers to ensure that the gas pipeline is built. Whatever the outcome, I want to see Alaskans benefit.
• Obtain Funding for Key Transportation Projects
  Alaska has historically been an important trading, transportation and military hub. Federally funded infrastructure projects like the Knik Arm Bridge, for instance, have the potential to develop into key investments clearly in America's commercial and strategic interests. However, even before ground has been broken on the project, the public has had concerns about accountability. We can change our image of “Bridges to Nowhere” into “Progress to Somewhere.” As Alaska's representative in Congress, I would bring immediate transparency to appropriation projects while I continue to fight for crucial funding.
• Promote Green Infrastructure
  As Alaska continues to grow, we need to confront environmental challenges in a responsible manner. As stewards of our planet and environment, we need to ensure that all infrastructure projects incorporate "green infrastructure"—protected forests, water bodies, open space, wildlife habitat—for the sake of our future generations. A benefit for future Alaskans.