February 21, 2008
Thursday

Ketchikan, Alaska - Wednesday the Legislative Budget & Audit Committee directed the Legislative Audit Division to initiate an audit of the Department of Transportation's handling of the Gravina Access Project proposed for Ketchikan. The audit was requested by Senator Bert Stedman (R-Sitka) who is Co-Chair of Senate Finance Committee and a member of the committee.

"The Gravina Bridge is a top priority for the state, but has been stalled by a bureaucratic process within DOT," Senator Stedman said. "Alaskans want results, and we need assurance that this project has been administered consistent with congressional, legislative, and public intent. This audit will give the public a fresh look at how their money has been managed on this important infrastructure project."

The Gravina Access Project in Ketchikan was initiated 30 years ago to improve surface transportation between Revillagigedo Island and Gravina Island. After exhaustive study and review, the Federal Highway Administration selected a two span, 320-foot bridge as the preferred alternative. Despite the fact that the project has received substantial federal and state appropriations, bridge construction has not begun.

"After years of effort, access to Gravina has not improved, there is no bridge in sight, and still no clear explanation as to why," said Stedman. "This audit should answer some very important questions."

Source of News:

Office of Sen. Bert Stedman

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