Ferry System
Dear Editor: Does anyone remember the ferry system? You know! Ships coming and going from Sitka with freight, people, tourists, etc. The first two legislative proposals at statehood in 1959 were fishing regs and ferries. Now it’s a mess!
Sen. Lisa Murkowski is celebrating a bipartisan effort to provide infrastructure (especially the ferry system) to Alaska. She stated, “I’m so happy.” “Let’s don’t mess this up!” $275 million is coming from the feds for new ferries and facilities. It requires that Alaska provide $100 million matching funds. Don’t mess this up!
Gov. Dunleavy was determined to destroy the ferry system in his first term. Perhaps this funding will be incentive to do it right this time. Sitka needs regular ferries. It is an integral part of coastal Alaska’s economic infrastructure. It is NOT a luxury, it is an economic necessity. Super highways (Anchorage) DO NOT MAKE A PROFIT. Let’s stop the nonsense talk about ferries not making a profit. They are not there to make a profit. They are there to SUPPORT businesses (freight, tourism, etc. ) so they can make a profit. Ferries provide basic transportation needs for businesses, school activities, health-care, etc. Simply put – it is a basic transportation need.
“Don’t mess this up.” And, don’t steal the funds to support another four-lane highway near Anchorage. It’s an investment! I ask the Legislature, Governor and our local governments of coastal Alaska to support this. Don’t mess it up! Find the matching bucks.
Harvey Brandt, Sitka
