Senator.Jesse.Bjorkman@akleg.gov

(907) 283-7996

There have big developments over the last week with road and energy projects.

The delayed phase 1b of the Cooper Landing Bypass is back in the STIP. Dirt work is slated to continue on the east side of the project this summer - moving the completion date up years sooner than 2032. To learn more about the history of this project, check out the overview KSRM published last October. 

The long awaited AKLNG project is moving forward full steam ahead with Glenfarne and ENSTAR leading the charge to bring natural gas from the north slope to the Railbelt. Everyday there are things happening that make the involved parties more bullish on the project. 

The Puppy Dog Lake Solar Farm project is currently not moving forward. The project would have been a large change to the Nikiski landscape. It is now delayed indefinitely as the developers and their financiers reassess their options.

Next week is going to be action packed as well. We’ll be monitoring AKLNG and road project developments as well as having hearings on important legislation.

Please contact me at 907-283-7996 and find us on Facebook to find out more about the work that I am doing for you.

Education funding is top of mind for many as the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District is once again facing massive potential cuts to educational opportunities because of uncertain one-time funding last year. The amount of increased investment being proposed by the Governor and the Legislature is not enough to avoid elimination of student learning opportunities. If we truly want a better education for our kids, then we need to invest at a level capable of delivering the results that we expect. I believe investments need to be made in career and technical education for grades 6-12 and additional reading and math instruction for K-5. However, nothing will improve outcomes more than students having high learning expectations set for them at home and at school by parents and teachers who care.

Alaska’s construction industry has raised significant concerns about the low number of projects DOT is putting out to bid. If there isn’t enough work, it can severely impact the health of the construction industry and our economy. The Senate Transportation Committee, which I chair, heard from the Alaska Dept. of Transportation on their plans to get projects out to bid in time for the summer season.

Kenai Peninsula residents Lisa McDonald and Nona Safra (along with Anchorage colleague Olivia Yancy) came to see me today. They all serve on the Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education, and came to talk about how the Legislature can support some of the most vulnerable residents of the Kenai.

Congratulations to Nikiski Middle/High School principal Mike Crain for receiving Alaska Region III Principal of the year award! The emphasis that you put into raising the bar and improving achievement doesn't go unnoticed.

Sign up for On the Kenai: Weekly Legislative Update

Senator Jesse Bjorkman | State Capitol Room 3, Juneau, AK 99801-1182