Linda Menard appointed to KABATA board

Alaska Senator Linda Menard has been appointed to the Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority board of directors. Senate President Gary Stevens made the appointment, which is effective June 8.Menard replaces Senator Charlie Huggins on the board.

There are seven members on the board, including three private citizens, two regional legislators and two state commissioners or their designees.

Menard said in a statement that she has been a vocal advocate in favor of the Knik Arm bridge and is looking forward to have a direct role in shaping the project’s future.

The Knik Arm bridge project, for short KABATA, was established by the State legislature in 2003 to construct a bridge across Knik Arm connecting the Municipality of Anchorage and the Mat-Su Borough. When built, the bridge would significantly shorten the distance from Anchorage to the Mat-Su valley.

The project went through the environmental impact statement process and the Federal Highway Administration is expected to enter a record of decision this year.