Author: Nicole Thompson
Nicole Thompson
Nicole Thompson is known for her in-depth coverage of community events and issues. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, she keeps her readers informed and engaged. Nicole's dedication to storytelling extends beyond the headlines.
Attention Bethel Water Department customers. There’s a double dose of important news regarding water usage and regulations. Originally scheduled maintenance on the town water system has been delayed until July 15th. Residents must dramatically reduce their water use for that entire week to prepare for this. The department urges everyone to do their part by limiting lawn watering to two days per week throughout the summer. To conserve water further, they recommend avoiding watering between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. and reminding everyone to skip watering their lawns altogether when it’s raining. In addition to these conservation measures, the Water…
A malfunctioning fire suppression system at the Alaska Army National Guard hangar in Bethel spilled about 10 gallons of firefighting foam containing PFAS chemicals. PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are linked to various health problems and have contaminated drinking water sources in Alaska around airports. The leak affected the hangar’s boiler room, bay, and outside areas. Some foam also entered the building’s wastewater system, contaminating a Bethel Public Works pump truck. The truck driver noticed the foam and alerted officials. As a precaution, the car was thoroughly washed three times and taken out of service. After consultations with state experts, the…
In a sudden and worrying event, a single-engine plane operated by Grant Aviation crashed during takeoff in Bethel, Alaska, this Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2024, around 4:20 p.m. It has caused concern in the local area and beyond. But there’s some good news—despite the crash, the pilot, the only person on the plane, came out without any injuries. This lucky outcome was thanks to quick responses from local emergency services like the Bethel Police, Fire Department, and Alaska State Troopers. As authorities try to identify what caused the crash, they consider mechanical problems, mistakes made by the pilot, and bad…
Exciting news for Bethel! The city has just received a $9 million federal grant to enhance the Yukon-Kuskokwim Fitness Center. This funding will be used to construct new facilities, including a gym, community rooms, and a computer lab. These additions will provide more spaces for Bethel residents to engage in recreational activities, socialize, and pursue learning opportunities. What’s Coming with the Expansion? Bethel City Clerk Lori Strickler shared the exciting details. The new expansion will include: Strickler emphasized our aim to offer free internet, computer, and printer access. This gym will be a unique resource in Bethel, open to all…
Knik Construction has been involved in Bethel infrastructure projects. Including maintenance and improvement work on the Chief Eddie Hoffman Highway and the Bethel Parallel Runway Airport during the summer months. Bethel City Council 2024 Capital Budget Priorities The Latest Bethel Infrastructure Projects The latest Bethel infrastructure projects include: 1. Broadband Infrastructure Projects: The federal government has invested $125 million in broadband infrastructure projects in the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta, where Bethel is located, to improve internet connectivity in the region. 2. New School Construction: Bethel Companies was contracted to construct a 42,500 sf new school for grades Kindergarten through 12 in…