By rail, sea, air and truck: transportation industry anticipates growth, particularly air cargo.

• Author: Colby, Nicole A. Bonham
• Position: ALASKA BUSINESS MONTHLY'S 2007 TRANSPORTATION SECTION

As summer breaks in the northland, the work of moving people and products to and from Alaska speeds up, and the state's skies, seas, railways and roads are humming with activity. Beset by high fuel costs and infrastructure concerns, Alaska's transportation sector nonetheless continues to enjoy moderate growth, employing technological innovations and process improvements to keep its global edge.

On the jobs front, transportation-particularly air cargo-continues to help fuel the Alaska economy.

RIDING THE FRIENDLY RAILS

Along the state's railways, the Alaska Railroad kicks off nearly $100 million in maintenance and improvements this year. The upgrades follow a solid year of performance for the railroad in 2006, with earnings of $10.4 million posted on total revenue of $148.9 million. Last year delivered the best safety record ever for the railroad, as well as another first-time milestone: issuance of tax-exempt revenue bonds.

"2006 capped a very successful five-year plan," says Pat Gamble, Alaska Railroad Corp. president and CEO. "As we review the progress of the past five years, we have already started to compile the lessons learned for our next five-year plan." Plans for this year include nearly $100 million in construction, most of that originating from federal funds. Efforts will include maintenance work on the railroad bridges, rails and ties, as well as realignment of curves, improvements to the Ship Creek area, and additional new track.

Also in the works is a whistle-stop train that originates from collaboration between the U.S. Forest Service and railroad, offering service to areas in Chugach National Forest. The project includes development of rail-accessible sites between Portage and Moose Pass connected to trails. The sites will include platforms, a passenger shelter, toilet facilities and an interpretive sign, according to the railroad. Some may include picnic sites, wildlife viewing and camping facilities and expanded trails. The project includes some 35 miles of trails between the Whistle Stop sites. According to a project fact sheet provided by the railroad, the project offers a number of benefits. Visitors can experience nature through the convenience of the transportation infrastructure. The concept protects the Chugach resources while also offering easy access. And the trail-rail mix may remove some traffic from the busy summer highways.

This spring, the railroad highlighted its creative marketing with a Diner Train concept...