Mat-Su Assembly declares Talkeetna flood emergency, seeks state aid for permanent fix

The Mat-Su Borough Assembly voted Tuesday to declare a local emergency over flooding and erosion threatening Talkeetna, opening a path to state assistance to help cover non-federal matches tied to federal funding opportunities, part of a broader effort toward a permanent fix that could exceed $20 million.

The assembly adopted Resolution 26-065 in response to the Susitna River's ongoing threat to Talkeetna's infrastructure. The declaration gives the assembly 180 days of emergency authority. Officials described it as somewhat preemptive, noting they expect additional flooding and repair needs in the coming weeks and fall season. Borough Manager Mike Brown said the long-term strategy aims to protect roughly a 2-mile stretch of the river, including the road itself, the Talkeetna Spur Highway, existing revetment and dike, adjacent rail right-of-way, and private properties along that stretch.

The funding gap is stark. Public Works Director Tom Adams said that in three of his roughly four years with the borough, emergency repairs to the dike and revetment were required, each costing roughly $1 million. The special service area generates only about $80,000 a year and holds roughly $100,000 in reserve, not enough to meet a $500,000 local match required by a FEMA grant opportunity through congressionally directed spending from Senator Murkowski's office. Borough Manager Mike Brown said the declaration is intended to unlock state funds to help bridge that gap for two separate federal opportunities, including a potential property buyout program for riverbank residents.