SC Alaska News

Senator Lisa Murkowski has authored an essay in the American Bar Association’s Human Rights magazine, advocating for a road to connect King Cove, Alaska, with Cold Bay's all-weather airport. This proposed road aims to provide reliable transportation access for the predominantly Aleut community during severe weather conditions.

In her piece, Murkowski emphasizes that the road is "a matter of human rights," noting its bipartisan support, including backing from the Biden administration. The senator outlines various challenges faced by remote Alaskan communities due to climate change and existing harsh climates.

King Cove is located at the end of the Alaska Peninsula and is home to about 750 people, mostly Aleut. The community relies on small planes or fishing boats for transportation, both often hindered by adverse weather. Murkowski highlights that King Cove's airstrip closes roughly 100 days a year due to high winds and dense fog.

Murkowski details incidents where medical emergencies have been exacerbated by travel delays, sometimes resulting in fatalities. She recounts stories of residents enduring dangerous journeys for medical care and points out that over 20 lives have been lost due to these circumstances.

The proposed road would span 11 miles through part of the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge. Past efforts to establish this connection have been met with opposition from environmental groups concerned about impacts on migratory birds.

Despite previous legislative attempts allowing such a road, approval has been denied due to environmental concerns. Meanwhile, Murkowski notes that Fish and Wildlife Service employees use roads within Izembek without apparent harm to wildlife.

Murkowski argues that constructing this road is essential for King Cove's safety and health needs, particularly as climate change continues to impact local conditions.