Construction projects: Denali Commission: expansion of act and funding authority helps rural Alaska grow.

• Position: SPECIAL SECTION: Building Alaska

The Denali Commission Act of 1998 established the Denali Commission (Commission) to deliver services of the federal government in the most cost-effective manner by reducing administrative and overhead costs. As part of the act, the Commission's mission of providing job training and other economic development services in rural communities was established with a specific focus on promoting rural development and providing power generation, transition facilities, modern communication systems, water and sewer systems, and other infrastructure needs in rural Alaska.

Since its inception, the Denali Commission Act of 1998 has been updated several times expanding its mission to include the planning and construction of health care facilities and the establishment of the Denali Access System Program for surface transportation infrastructure and waterfront transportation projects.

Most recently, the Denali Commission Act was again expanded to include the authority for the Commission to accept funding from other federal agencies as well as gifts or donations for the purpose of carrying out the act.

The Denali Commission's funding has traditionally included federal congressional appropriations through the Energy and Water appropriations committee. In addition, the Commission also receives funds from sources such as the US Department of Agriculture and from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Trust Fund for energy projects.

In recent legislation, the Commission acquired new authority within its statute that allows the Commission to accept gifts or donations of services, property, or money from non-federal entities; the Commission is also able to accept transfers of funds from other federal agencies to carry out any activities that are authorized in its mission.

TRNASPORTATION

* King Salmon-Naknek School Bus Road Reconstruction: Commission funds $1,440,633 and a local match of $131,607.

This Bristol Bay Borough-managed project reconstructs area roads used by school buses, improving drainage, structural section, alignment, and surfacing to improve safety and driving conditions. SAC construction and R&M Engineering.

* Iliamna Dock Rehabilitation: Commission funding $608,000 and a local match of $152,000.

This Lake and Peninsula Borough-managed project rehabilitates the existing deteriorated dock to improve safety and functionality. PND engineering and Iliamna Lake Contractors.

* Nenana 9th Avenue Reconstruction: Commission funding $1,348,919. This...