Yellowhammer Times

The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is proposing a study to assess the feasibility of building a new ferry terminal in Hyder, Alaska. This initiative is part of the Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) Amendment #2 and involves a proposed budget of $250,000.

Restoring ferry services between Alaska and British Columbia has been challenging due to regulatory complexities related to international SOLAS standards and compliance with the Build America, Buy America Act. These challenges have hindered efforts to resume direct service to Prince Rupert, British Columbia.

Commissioner Ryan Anderson remarked, "A Hyder ferry terminal could restore key links to British Columbia while bypassing complex international regulations and funding constraints. We are committed to collaborating with stakeholders in Hyder, Stewart, Prince Rupert, and the Southeast Conference to explore this opportunity."

There is strong local support for a ferry connection in Hyder. Communities on both sides of the border anticipate economic and social benefits such as increased tourism and better access to essential services.

The STIP Amendment #2 is open for public review until March 20, 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback via the Alaska DOT&PF STIP website.

The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities manages various transportation infrastructures across the state including airports, ferries serving multiple communities along marine routes, highways, and public facilities. The department's mission is “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”