This bill amends the management responsibilities for Chugach State Park, specifically assigning control, development, and maintenance of the park to the relevant department while clarifying the roles of the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. The new language specifies that the department is responsible for the management of state land and water within the park, as well as for highway access and roadside structures. The previous language that assigned control to the Department of Transportation for public roads and structures has been removed. Additionally, the bill allows for the modification of park boundaries under certain conditions, subject to legislative approval.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for granting easements or rights-of-way within the park to municipalities, contingent upon public notice and hearings, and a determination that such actions would enhance public access and serve the public interest. It also reaffirms that the Department of Transportation is responsible for the repair and maintenance of existing public roads within the park, except where municipalities may perform such work. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: SB0047A, AM SB 47, introduced 01/17/2025: 41.21.122, 41.21.121