Port of Anchorage: A Billion-Dollar Mess that Other Ports Will Also Face?
In an article appearing in the Anchorage Daily News on January 15, 2011, it was reported that the largest economic development project under way in Anchorage has stalled under a cloud of construction troubles and ballooning costs. The completion date for the massive dock replacement project at the Port of Anchorage has been pushed back to 2021 from a target of 2011 set before major construction began. The price tag, which was $360 million as of 2005, has escalated to $1 billion.
It was further reported that port officials remain convinced the dock can be built as designed. "Although these setbacks are frustrating, they are not insurmountable and the project remains on track," the port says in written answers to questions.
An editorial that appeared on the same date noted that big shippers do not have much faith in the project. A retired executive called it a "mess" and fears more problems will be discovered. Neither shipper referenced was confident that promised permanent berths will be built.
Other Northwest ports may be facing similar problems so it will be of interest to see how things play out with renovating the Port of Anchorage.
