Anchorage Assembly gives the Port of Anchorage a new name

The Port of Anchorage will now be known as the Port of Alaska. On Tuesday night the Anchorage Assembly approved the name change after a public hearing.

Assembly Chair Dick Traini introduced the ordinance, saying not all lawmakers in Juneau are aware of the port’s role in making goods available outside of the city.

“I just think this is something that really reflects reality,” said Assembly member Amy Demboski.

Port Director Steve Ribuffo says the port is suffering from corrosion and has 10 years of life left. Ribuffo has said rebuilding it would cost close to $700 million.

Assembly member Fred Dyson was the only no vote, “I think we will lose more than we gain. I would have suggested that we call it the Anchorage statewide port,” said Dyson.

The ordinance allows the Port of Alaska to change its logos over time so as not to incur additional expenses.