Alaska officials push for deepwater U.S. port in the Arctic

The following is the text of a press release issued by U.S. Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska:
 
(WASHINGTON) — Alaskan Congressman Don Young has introduced H.R. 4576, The Arctic Deep Water Sea Port Act. This legislation would require a study and report on the feasibility and potential of establishing a deep water sea port in the Arctic to protect and advance strategic United States interests within the evolving and ever more important region.
 
This bill is companion legislation to S.2849 introduced by Senator Murkowski in December 2009. This legislation will provide for a two-year study to determine what strategic capabilities this deep water port should provide as well as the most favorable location for it.

“The United States is an Arctic nation because of Alaska and Alaska will provide the gateway to our nation’s future,†said Rep. Young. “We have the opportunity now to address the prospects of industry years down the road and how we can use changing arctic conditions to our advantage. Now is the time to be investing in our infrastructure and laying the groundwork. As other countries develop interests in this region, we need to ensure the protection of the U.S.’s interests and make moves now to lay our claim.â€

This legislation has been referred to the U.S. House Committee on Armed Services.

By Professional Mariner Staff