Juneau — Today, the Alaska House of Representatives passed House Joint Resolution 14 (HJR 14), a measure led by Representative Kevin McCabe (R-Big Lake) that voices strong legislative support for completing two of the most consequential transportation projects in Alaska’s modern history: the Port MacKenzie Rail Extension and the Northern Rail Extension.
While a resolution does not carry the force of law, HJR 14 marks a clear, unified signal to both federal partners and state agencies that the time to finish these vital infrastructure projects is now.
Representative Kevin McCabe (R-Big Lake) has been a relentless advocate for this vision for years. He stated, “HJR 14 is more than a resolution, it’s a roadmap to Alaska’s future prosperity, resilience, and national security.”
If completed, the Port MacKenzie Rail Extension would establish a direct freight link between Interior Alaska and Southcentral tidewater ports, including Port MacKenzie, Seward, Whittier, and Anchorage, cutting costs for industry, improving energy distribution, and providing a strategic alternative route in the event of disasters that disrupt highways or other port access. Nearly two-thirds of this rail line has already been constructed.
Meanwhile, the Northern Rail Extension would close the final gap connecting Fort Greely, home to the nation’s missile defense system, to the Alaska Railroad network. As global tensions grow and Arctic security becomes more critical, rail access to this military hub is essential for logistics, training, and defense readiness.
Beyond national security and industrial logistics, the resolution calls on the Alaska Railroad to approach future rail development with transparency and community engagement. It underscores the need for close collaboration with residents, businesses, and local governments in the Mat-Su Valley and Interior Alaska.
“This is about thinking big, about economic opportunity, military strength, and building the kind of infrastructure that other Arctic nations have already prioritized,” said Rep. McCabe. “This resolution sends the message that Alaska is ready to lead.”
HJR 14 also urges Alaska’s congressional delegation to fight for federal support to bring these projects across the finish line.