CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 35(TRA) - Summary

• Supports completion of the Port MacKenzie Rail Extension and Northern Rail Extension to connect Fort Greely, Houston, Delta Junction, and the Port MacKenzie area by rail.

• Port MacKenzie Rail Extension is 33 miles from completion and would reduce transportation and energy costs, improve air quality, and enable liquefied natural gas shipments from Cook Inlet to Interior Alaska communities.

• Northern Rail Extension has completed Phase 1 by crossing the Tanana River and is now within 70 miles of Delta Junction and Fort Greely, supporting military operations and commercial transportation for mining and agricultural industries.

• Encourages Alaska Railroad to adopt community-minded approach to future rail expansions, including reporting to the legislature on efforts to improve relations with private landowners and affected communities, and supports returning formerly private land to owners or providing compensation.

• Urges Alaska's Congressional delegation to pursue completion of both rail extensions as critical infrastructure necessary for Arctic defense capabilities.