The latest Alaska Infrastructure Report Card showed that the state received a C grade, an improvement from the C- given four years ago. The American Society of Civil Engineers released the report, crediting the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for funding major improvements.
However, the Alaska Marine Highway System remained the lowest-rated category, receiving a D grade. Engineers emphasized that proper asset management is key to preserving infrastructure and reducing costly repairs.
One of the presenters, Greg Kinney, explained that officials must monitor facility conditions to perform preventative maintenance and plan long-term repairs. The report, issued every four years, assesses 13 categories, including roads, bridges, and drinking water.
Alaska Department of Transportation Commissioner Ryan Anderson noted that the state’s overall grade matches many others across the country. He pointed out that Texas and Maine also received a C, while three states received the highest grade, a C+.
Bridges showed the most improvement, jumping from B—to B+ as engineers efficiently used resources to upgrade critical structures. Meanwhile, public transit saw the biggest decline, falling from B—to C due to post-pandemic server cuts.
Drinking water improved slightly from D to D+, but rural areas still struggle with access, forcing 32 communities to rely on untreated sources. The marine highway system received a failing grade because of aging vessels, staff shortages, and declining ridership.
Workforce retention remains a challenge, with 1.5 employees quitting for every new hire. Before meaningful improvements can be made, officials must stabilize ferry schedules and secure long-term funding.
Policymakers worry about federal funding cuts under the Trump administration, which previously sought drastic reductions. Engineers warn that revoked grants, such as $50 for electric vehicle infrastructure, could jeopardize future projects. The Alaska Infrastructure Report Card highlights the progress and upcoming challenges.
This news article was originally published by the Juneau Empire.
