AIDEA holds virtual public meeting for West Susitna Access project

The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA), in coordination with the Mat-Su Borough, and with undisclosed industry partners, is in the pre-development feasibility stage of a project called the West Susitna Access Road.

The West Susitna Access Road, if built, will allow public access to resource development opportunities that could diversify the state and borough economy, and lead to job creation.

But some locals aren’t happy about it.  Rainy Pass Lodge is one of Alaska’s oldest hunting lodges.  According to its website, the lodge was founded in 1937, and current owners, Steve and Denise Perrins have called it home since 2003.  The lodge is located near the proposed road, but the lodge derives its value from its remote nature.  According to Perrins, building the public road would ruin his business.

Other residents expressed concern for fish habitat, and for people who purchased their remote properties to get away from it all.

More than one participant wanted to know who the private investment partners in the project are, and who would end up paying for the road if it is built.

AEIDA and the Borough insist that the project is purely in the pre-development phase and that these concerns will both be public and will be discussed.

Some residents are in favor of the road, saying too much of Alaska is remote, and the lack of infrastructure is a barrier to recreating in the state.

While the economic focus of the project seems to revolve around mining interests, the Borough said it intends to also utilize the road, if built, for land disposal and timber sales.

The meeting was adjourned with many unanswered questions.  The West Susitna Access Project is currently conducting an online open house. The webpage details the project’s history, current status and future plans.  Representatives from AEIDA are encouraging stakeholders in the project, to comment or ask questions via the open house webpage through December 20, 2020.