Unalaska approves airport gate power line, with the state covering the cost

The Unalaska City Council on Tuesday, Aug. 25 authorized a utility line extension agreement with the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, adopting Resolution 2026-51 to provide electricity for new vehicle access gates at Unalaska Airport.

The department issued an invitation to bid on the DUT Vehicle Access Gate Replacement project July 24 and closed it Aug. 19. Its engineer estimate ranges between $1 million and $2.5 million, with work required by Aug. 15, 2027. The project will replace three gate assemblies, including gates, warning lights and signs, and control equipment, near Runway end 31, and relocate one gate outside the runway obstacle free area of Runway 13/31.

In July, the council leased the East Point Road right-of-way for one gate, a 30-year term with a single optional 10-year renewal, no payment to the city and maintenance costs borne by the state. "DOT&PF needs to move and replace the third gate so that it is outside the runway protection zone," public works director Brian Thacker wrote in his memorandum, citing a Federal Aviation Administration requirement.

DOT&PF will advance the city $72,121 and cover any eligible overrun plus 10 percent. Staff listed no city cost; the extension becomes city property.