Census data shows upper valley population increase in the hundreds

The 2010 Census Data was released yesterday and shows that the Mat Su Borough grew 50 percent in the past 10 years.  It is the fastest growing borough in the state according to the records.  The next fastest area was the North Star Borough with a 12 percent increase.

The population of the Mat Su Borough is now almost 89-thousand people.  Over the last 10 years the Mat Su has been growing at an annual average rate of 5 percent while Anchorage’s rate is 1.2  percent for the same period.

The census data shows Talkeetna grew by 104 people in the last 10 years,  from 772 people to 806.  Trapper Creek’s population grew from 423 to 481 people.  The Y community is now called ‘North Susitna’ and now has a population of 1260 compared to 956 in 2000.

Chase’s population dropped by 7 people and the community of Willow exploded, gaining 444 residents.

Mat Su Mayor Larry DeVilbiss says the new numbers show the Borough is clearly underrepresented in the state legislature and he looks forward to the process that will draw new district lines.