SC Alaska News

Last week, the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) bill for Fiscal Year 2026, with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) supporting its passage. The bill includes several provisions aimed at addressing Alaska’s needs in transportation, infrastructure, and housing.

“This funding meets some of Alaska’s most critical needs, ranging from affordable housing to infrastructure improvements,” said Senator Murkowski. “I look forward to continuing to advocate for these wide-ranging investments that will benefit all Americans and provide stability for those who need some help getting back on their feet.”

The THUD appropriations bill sets aside $20 million for the Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative and $687.5 million for Essential Air Service. These investments are intended to improve aviation safety in Alaska, where air travel is often essential due to geography and weather conditions.

For broader infrastructure improvements across the country and in Alaska, the bill provides $63 billion for the Federal Highway Administration, $2.9 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration, and $874 million for the Maritime Administration. This includes allocations such as $30 million for Assistance to Small Shipyards Grants and $75 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program.

In terms of community development and housing initiatives, Senator Murkowski advocated for funding that aims to make housing more accessible nationwide. The bill continues support with $107 million allocated to the Youth Homeless Demonstration Program and $1.25 billion for the HOME Investment Partnership Program through HUD grants used by states, local governments, and nonprofits to increase affordable housing options. There is also a provision of $52 million specifically designated to rehouse survivors of domestic violence.

Tribal housing programs receive notable attention as well: $1.11 billion is set aside for Indian Housing Block Grants along with $10 million directed toward Tribal Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Vouchers.

Additionally, Senator Murkowski secured targeted investments requested by local governments or organizations in 27 Alaska communities. Projects include funds allocated toward purchasing or renovating shelters in Anchorage; constructing teacher housing in Buckland, Noatak, Kivalina; road reconstruction in Fairbanks; dock replacement in Kake; marine vessel upgrades in Ketchikan; port infrastructure improvements in Nulato Village; fire station construction on Saint Paul Island; runway extension at Wasilla Airport; childcare center design and construction in Talkeetna; among others.

The committee-approved legislation now moves forward to be considered by the full Senate.