PORT LEADERSHIP
opportunities for significantly larger infrastructure funding programs that can support projects of this scale in the future.” Looking ahead Although Alaska’s population has remained relatively stable, several major developments could dramatically increase demand on the port in coming years. Potential construction of a natural gas pipeline, major military investments at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and other large-scale infrastructure projects all point toward increased freight volumes. Those projects reinforce the importance of ensuring Alaska’s primary gateway remains resilient, modern and capable of supporting future economic development. For Umatum, however, success is measured less by project milestones than by ensuring the people of Alaska continue receiving the goods they depend on every day. His focus remains clear: keep people safe, keep cargo moving and deliver a modern port that will serve future generations. “I’ve lived in Alaska almost my entire life,” he says. “I understand what this port means to our communities. Every decision we make here is about protecting Alaska’s future.” As construction continues over the coming decade, the Port of Alaska stands as one of the Pacific’s most significant infra- structure investments—an undertaking that will strengthen supply chain resilience not only for Alaska, but for the broader Pacific maritime network for decades to come.
Phase 2A, the new Administration Building is also complete.
flows through to the movement of cargo. Every container, every barrel of fuel and every ton of cement moving through the port contributes toward financing the redevelopment. “The reality is that along with federal and state fund- ing sources, Alaskans are helping to pay for this project via municipal bonds paid for / offset by port surcharges” he said, adding that because nearly everything entering the state passes through the Port of Alaska, the cost of modern- ization is reflected throughout Alaska’s economy. While grateful for state and federal grant programs, Umatum believes the amounts could be more. “When you have an $800+ million project, and the grant tops out at $61.5 million, it still leaves a significant funding gap,” he said. “We are working with our congressional delegation to identify
Save the date!
APP’s 2027 Winter Conference January 27 to 29, 2027 — Honolulu, Hawaii
As the half-way point for APP Members on both sides of the Pacific, Hawaii provides the perfect location for our Winter Conference. Our 2027 Conference returns to the Kahala Resort on Honolulu, Hawaii, providing an engaging agenda with plenty of networking opportunities — in one of the most beautiful spots on earth!
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24 — PACIFIC PORTS — July 2026
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