Anchorage port gets $6.4 million in federal infrastructure funding

Residents of Anchorage will see operational improvements at the local cargo hub as part of a new federal funding package announced on Monday. U.S. Department of Transportation awards totaling nearly $105 million will modernize and expand port infrastructure across six communities in the state. The allocations were announced on October 26, 2026, by Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski and Representative Nick Begich.

The Port of Alaska Modernization Program will receive $6,394,000 for the Stevedore Support Facilities and Landside Operations Readiness Project. This funding supports operational improvements at what is described as Alaska's principal maritime cargo hub. The money aims to update facilities and prepare landside operations for future modernization efforts.

Whittier will receive the largest single award in the package, amounting to $50,593,488 for the DeLong Dock Replacement Project. This investment addresses aging maritime infrastructure that serves Southcentral Alaska's transportation network and regional supply chains. The project is a major component of the state's effort to replace deteriorating dock structures.

Three other communities will share the remaining funds. Kodiak is allocated $26,070,000 for Phase 2A of the Saint Herman Harbor Recapitalization Project, which supports the commercial fishing fleet. Nome will receive $11,250,000 for local service facilities associated with its Arctic deep-draft port expansion. Unalaska will get $4,402,403 for the Ounalashka Arctic and North Pacific Maritime Hub, and Kake will receive $6,287,220 for its marine cargo dock development.

The congressional delegation stated that these projects aim to improve safety and efficiency while maintaining Alaska's role as a gateway for commerce and national security. Senator Sullivan noted that Alaska has more coastline than the rest of the country combined, making ports critical lifelines for communities and the economy. Senator Murkowski added that the investments ensure the state can continue to support maritime operations effectively.

These awards are part of a larger federal infrastructure push for Alaska in recent years. Previous allocations have included approximately $324 million in Port Infrastructure Development Program funds, $250 million for Nome's deep-draft port, and more than $169 million for the Don Young Port of Alaska modernization. The delegation also cited billions in investments for broadband, aviation safety, and military infrastructure as part of the same broader strategy.

The funding comes from the Port Infrastructure Development Program. Representative Begich emphasized that the investments support the commercial fishing sector and strengthen supply chain networks. The projects are designed to serve communities from Southeast Alaska to the Aleutians and the Arctic, with specific focus on deep-draft capabilities and local service facilities.