The Port of Anchorage will turn 50 in September, and Director Bill Sheffield says the public can expect big changes to the port in the coming years.
"When we're all through here we will have 7 berth places and 2 dry docks we never had before which are really important," said former Governor Sheffield during an interview Sunday afternoon.
Sheffield was at the port speaking to visitors. Starting Sunday July 10th, 2011 every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the port will offer free tours. The tours will run through August 28th, 2011.
The port is currently in the middle of a multi-million dollar expansion plan and the tours give the public the opportunity to ask questions, and take a look at the progress.
"We give them a map with information and projected dates," said Lindsey Whitt, a spokeswoman for the Port of Anchorage. "It's a great way to see both the current port and the future port that we are looking forward to having."
"It's a big project, it's a good project and it's a necessary project, and the state needs to be well served with this port," said Sheffield.
The port expansion plan has faced several critics because of the large price tag, but Sheffield says the port is deteriorating and needs improvements.
The Port of Anchorage services 85% of Alaskans, according to Sheffield, providing groceries and supplies for households and communities all over Alaska.
Contact jbartz@ktuu.com
