WWW.PORTOFALASKA.COM/PORT-OF-ALASKA-MODERNIZATION-PROGRAM DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA THE ANCHOR OF ALASKA’S FREIGHT OPERATIONS
DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA AT A GLANCE THE DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA WHAT: T he state of Alaska’s primary maritime gateway, WHERE: Anchorage, Alaska WEBSITE: www.portofalaska.com/port-of-alaska-modernization-program THE ANCHOR OF ALASKA’S FREIGHT OPERATIONS 1 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03
EXPLORING A METHODICAL APPROACH TO PORT MODERNIZATION IN ANCHORAGE Over the years, the municipality of Anchorage,Alaska, has become known as a critical gateway for commerce, security, and economic resilience in the region. That is entirely thanks to the presence of The Don Young Port of Alaska. Since its ribbon-cutting in September 1961, the Don Young Port of Alaska 2 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03
has played a crucial role in the state’s economic infrastructure. Originally built to attract commercial business, the port became indispensable following the catastrophic 1964 Alaska earthquake. With the devastation of ports in Seward, Valdez, and Homer, Anchorage’s fledgling facility emerged as the primary maritime gateway for the state. To honor this history of resilience, the port continues to advance with long-term redevelopment and modernization as the focus. Leadership efforts seek to remedy aging infrastructure, improve seismic resilience, and increase cargohandling efficiency. To accomplish this, strong partnerships with federal, state, and local agencies have been established to secure funding and legislative support. The port also leverages cutting-edge technology for logistics, security, and environmental sustainability to ensure that it meets modern maritime operational standards Regarding its people, the port has strengthened its workforce development initiatives to ensure that employees can also meet evolving industry demands. Additionally, leadership is enhancing maintenance protocols and implementing innovative sustainability practices that will improve long-term functionality and reduce environmental impact. With all of these elements combined, the Don Young Port of Alaska has emerged as a modernized, resilient, and efficient hub, serving as the backbone of economic growth, supply chain reliability, and, ultimately, the well-being of most Alaskans. The port’s savvy yet practical approach to modern expansion solidifies its role as a vital link in Alaska’s infrastructure for years to come. A STATE PILLAR WITH A MODERN PLAN FOR ADAPTATION Today, the Don Young Port of Alaska continues to serve as the main port of entry for essential goods. 3 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA
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Redefining what’s possible. Follow us @JacobsConnects | jacobs.com Whether by air, sea or land, at Jacobs, we create equitable, sustainable solutions for smart, integrated transportation infrastructure that connects people and communities around the world. From aviation, rail & transit, highways & bridges, to ports & maritime, we keep future generations moving forward. Creating a more connected, sustainable world.
Jacobs is proud to partner with the Don Young Port of Alaska in delivering innovative transit solutions that will serve Alaskans for generations to come. Drawing on our 150 years of experience and extensive expertise in Alaska, we provide expert program management and planning to this critical transportation hub, ensuring the vitality and livability of the communities that rely on it. Located in Anchorage, the Port of Alaska provides life sustaining resources to the State of Alaska including food, consumer goods, building materials and cars for Interior Alaskan communities, military facilities, mining operations and rural Native Alaskan villages. In addition to its local significance, the port plays a vital role nationally as it is identified as a strategic commercial seaport as part of the National Port Readiness Network. Jacobs is supporting the Port of Alaska Modernization Program. This phased upgrade of aging infrastructure is crucial to maintaining ongoing operations of the port for another 75 years. As program manager, Jacobs is overseeing and planning this modernization program that will provide four new terminals, a new onshore administrative building and the demolition of existing terminals, all while the port remains operational.Added to the challenge is the unique environment which is home to endangered species, has significant seismic risk, ice floes and a shortened construction window due to cold weather. With a locally based team and global expertise, we’re ready to tackle any challenge. Jacobs is the premier ports and maritime service provider. We provide clients with value-added consulting, planning and engineering services for maritime infrastructure. Our specialists address top-of-mind issues, including decarbonization, electrification, resiliency, sea-level rise, infrastructure life extension, renewal and beyond. We are a leader in sustainable development and are committed to the sustainment and resiliency of the built environment. Our professionals have a long, proven history of successful program delivery and have navigated the world’s largest and most complex programs, bringing in-depth understanding of the complex nature of maritime infrastructure, backed by global knowledge and local experience. We deliver the world’s most iconic infrastructure and buildings programs – partnering with clients to transform communities, places and lives for the better. We bring our suite of digital solutions to deliver strategic outcomes and tackle each program’s unique challenges, including urbanization, climate change, water scarcity or mega infrastructure. At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow – delivering outcomes and solutions for the world’s most complex challenges.
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Given Alaska’s geographical challenges—limited road access, no rail connections to the lower 48 states, the state relies heavily on maritime transport. “90% of the freight that comes into Alaska comes in on the water. Half of that crosses our docks here in Anchorage, and half of what crosses our docks, continues on to destinations along the road and rail system that touch about 85% of the state population,” says Port Director Steve Ribuffo. Unlike many ports operating under independent port authorities, the Don Young Port of Alaska is uniquely governed as a department of the Municipality of Anchorage, reporting directly to the Anchorage Assembly and the mayor. So, beyond its commercial function, the port has earned designation as a commercial strategic seaport by the Department of Defense. It also plays a key role in military deployments and disaster response initiatives, working closely with FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. “We have a mission directly responsible to the army for their deployments and redeployments of troops and equipment in… and we have a responsibility to the State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, as well as FEMA, to be part of any disaster response and recovery plans for major disaster responses that might occur in the State, whether they be manmade or natural,” Ribuffo explains. Having considered the potential for future natural disasters, port leadership fully acknowledges the urgency of aging infrastructure and seismic vulnerability. As a solution, the Don Yong Port of Alaska has embarked on a transformational initiative: the Port of Alaska Modernization Program. While the last significant infrastructure addition was a petroleum dock in the mid-1970s, decades of accelerated low-water corrosion have severely degraded the port’s wharf piles, requiring a complete overhaul. 8 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03
TOTE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN SHIPPING DEDICATED. RELIABLE. BUILT TO SERVE. In 2025, TOTE Maritime Alaska, LLC (TOTE) proudly marks its 50th anniversary of delivering dedicated and reliable service to the Last Frontier. Since 1975, the company has been a critical lifeline for Alaska, ensuring the seamless movement of goods between the Port of Tacoma and the Don Young Port of Alaska, with unmatched efficiency, safety, and commitment to the communities it serves. TOTE operates dedicated, twice-weekly cargo service with the ORCA-Class vessels. Designed for versatility, the roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) operations can handle everything from refrigerated trailers to oversized freight, heavy machinery, and rolling stock. These state-of-the-art ships were engineered to handle Alaska’s demanding conditions and versatile cargo needs safely and efficiently. Simply put—if it can travel on the road, it can sail aboard a TOTE ship. In 2023, TOTE led the charge in cleaner shipping by converting its Alaska fleet to liquefied natural gas (LNG), which significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality for the regions it sails. This commitment to sustainability aligns with TOTE’s long-standing mission to support Alaska’s economy while preserving its pristine environment. “As an industry leader, we are proud to continually invest in our people, our customers, and our communities to enhance efficiency and improve how we operate. We’re dedicated to providing a best-in-class customer experience and a forward-thinking approach to maritime transportation,” said Alex Hofeling, President, TOTE Maritime Alaska. For half a century, TOTE has been more than just a shipping company—it has been a steadfast partner to the communities it serves. As TOTE celebrates 50 years of excellence, it remains committed to its mission of delivering with integrity, care, and a deep-rooted dedication to the people and communities it serves. TOTE Maritime Alaska belongs to the TOTE Group family of companies, a leading transportation and logistics company, overseeing some of the most trusted companies in the US.
The modernization effort, which began in 2012, aims to replace the entire marine terminal facility.The first milestone was reached in 2022 with the completion of a new petroleum and cement offloading dock. The next phase involves demolishing and reconstructing cargo docks, ensuring their resistance to seismic events while still meeting contemporary industry standards. “It’s going to be a program that will cost about 2 billion dollars, maybe a little bit more before it’s done. But it’s a total replacement of the entire marine terminal facility structure that we have here, and it’s a really big deal for Alaska. It’s probably the largest infrastructure program the State of Alaska has ever seen!” Ribuffo exclaims. Unlike expansion projects driven by potential or immediate commercial growth, this initiative is a practical necessity. As the backbone of the state’s supply chain, the port maintains continuity in delivering essential goods. So, due to Alaska’s steady population and relatively small manufacturing base for export, the port’s maintenance represents protection from seismic events, both physical and economic. EFFICIENT OPERATIONAL MODELS AND RELATIONSHIPS Despite its responsibilities, the port operates with a lean staff of just 23 personnel. Of these, 13 focus on maintenance, while the remaining team oversees operations, finance, engineering, business development, and security. Functionally, the operation can best be described as a landlord-port model in which private-sector operators manage commercial activities. In contrast to many ports with independent boards, the Don Young Port of Alaska integrates into the broader municipal framework.“If we need HR, legal, or similar support, we reach out to the municipality of Anchorage’s general government staff to provide those services for us, “Ribuffo states. This structure presents both advantages and 11 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA
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Founded in 1970 on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, Udelhoven Oilfield System Services, Inc. is renowned for reliability, excellence, and innovation. For over 45 years, we’ve expanded our operations beyond Alaska to Texas, Washington, Georgia, and internationally to locations such as China, Turkey, Canada, and Trinidad. This growth stems from our unwavering commitment to quality, making us a trusted partner in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical industries. Our founder, Jim Udelhoven, built this company on principles that continue to drive us today— providing outstanding service through highly skilled and dedicated professionals. Quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction remain central to everything we do. Every project is an opportunity to deliver results that not only meet but exceed expectations, fostering strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We provide a full range of services that adapt to every phase of a project. From initial planning to construction and project startup, our expertise covers industrial facilities, pipelines, fabrication, commissioning, and civil, structural, mechanical, piping, electrical, and instrumentation solutions. This comprehensive approach allows us to address complex challenges with tailor-made, costeffective solutions that emphasize quality. Safety is at the core of our operations. Our robust Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) program is designed to ensure a safe and healthy workplace for all employees, subcontractors, and clients. Key components include management audits, safety inspections, incident investigations, and specialized training to reduce risks and promote a strong safety culture. At Udelhoven, we uphold a “ZERO” incident mindset, believing all accidents are preventable and that safety is a shared responsibility across every level of our workforce. To maintain top safety standards, we prioritize supervisor training and use leading industry platforms like ISNetworld, PEC Premier Safety Management, and PICS to track and verify our compliance. These tools help us consistently meet or exceed industry regulations while improving our processes. At Udelhoven, our dedication to quality, safety, and client satisfaction has earned us a strong reputation within the industry.As we look toward the future, we remain committed to providing exceptional value to our clients. We invite you to partner with us and see how our comprehensive solutions can support your success.
challenges. While the port benefits from municipal resources, it must navigate the constraints of shared government staffing, which sometimes results in operational delays. To mitigate these constraints, the port maintains partnerships with external engineering firms and program management contractors to supplement in-house expertise. “We have three engineering services contracts for companies that have the expertise that we don’t have on staff… The modernization program is managed by another contractor all in and of itself,” Ribuffo explains. Due to the port’s vital commercial activity, all contracts must comply with the rule that they must not interfere with the port’s commercial activities, disrupting Alaska’s economic landscape. To ensure proper accounting, the port team utilizes 15 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA
Manson Construction Co. specializes in marine construction and dredging, including in-water demolition, pile-driving, dock/pier construction, rock placement, and heavy lifts. Founded in 1905 as a small pile-driving business supporting Seattle’s early waterfront development, Manson is today an employee-owned company providing quality marine services throughout North America. Our history of work in Alaska includes construction of a Unalaska wharf in 1931, the Yukon River Bridge in 1975, the Auke Bay Ferry Terminal, Juneau cruise ship berths, and the Port of Anchorage Modernization Project, as well as maintenance dredging in Anchorage over the last 20 years. With more than 800 employees, Manson ensures projects are staffed with the best-suited project management and skilled craft personnel. Our equipment fleet further ensures we have the right resources as we own, operate, and maintain a fleet of heavy marine equipment that includes 60 specialized vessels and more than 50 barges. Manson brings innovative solutions and engineering expertise to high-profile, public/private infrastructure and energy projects and an approach to construction that includes comprehensive understanding of applicable regulations and a proactive approach to constructability. Utilizing our strong network of subcontractors and business partners, Manson minimizes impacts to facility operations while maintaining budget and schedule. WWW.MANSONCONSTRUCTION.COM Building the nation’s waterways and marine infrastructure since 1905. Scan the QR Code to learn more. Follow us on social media CONNECT WITH US C M Y CM MY CY CMY K Business View Ad - Port of Anchorage copy.pdf 1 1/17/2025 11:16:45 AM
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SAP as its core enterprise resource planning system, ensuring streamlined operations in finance, HR, and billing. While standalone security and berth reservation systems exist, every piece of technology must align with the broader municipal IT framework to ensure robust cybersecurity and operational stability. “The technology we have is not very sophisticated… and we’re able to successfully conduct business without having to be sophisticated,” Ribuffo states. In an era where digital transformation dominates the global supply chain conversation, the Don Young Port of Alaska takes a more measured approach. For example, the port’s legacy infrastructure, including three ship-to-shore cranes built over 50 years ago, exemplifies this philosophy. With no direct digital connection, they remain impervious to modern cyber threats. This simplicity has proven to be an asset, enabling the port to focus on function over unnecessary complexity. “Simple works for us,” Ribuffo explains.“Simple keeps us kind of unhackable.” Beyond its logistical responsibilities, the port plays a crucial role in fostering community relationships and economic development. Recognizing its proximity to both a military base and a local neighborhood, The port prioritizes transparency and engagement. As Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson’s designated commercial strategic seaport, the facility also plays a fundamental role in national security logistics. This collaboration ensures that military operations receive essential supplies efficiently, reinforcing the port’s value beyond just commercial shipping. Regarding the local community, Ribuffo and other employees often attend community council meetings to address concerns, dispel myths, and maintain open lines of communication with residents. Furthermore, the port actively introduces young 18 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03
students to the maritime and logistics industries. By hosting elementary school tours, it provides firsthand exposure to the essential functions of port operations. “There’s a lot of good paying jobs that come out of working on the port,, so it’s nice to expose kids to these things, and what young kid doesn’t like truck drivers who honk their horns when they wave at them?” Ribuffo remarks. These interactions not only inspire future careers but also enhance public awareness of the port’s significance. LOOKING TO THE FUTURE OF THE PORT The future of the Don Young Port of Alaska is firmly anchored in its modernization efforts. As it progresses through the replacement of critical infrastructure, the port remains steadfast in its mission: ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods to Alaskans, maintaining military readiness, and reinforcing its role as a vital component of the state’s economic and security framework. By balancing long-term strategic planning with daily operational efficiency, the port exemplifies resilience in an environment where logistical challenges are a constant reality. The ongoing modernization project is poised to bring state-of-the-industry infrastructure online, 19 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA
Experience a world of opportunity with the Alaska International Airport System (AIAS)—your launching point for reaching every corner of the globe. Comprising Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) and Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), AIAS is strategically positioned to connect you with vital markets across North America, Asia, and beyond. Anchorage’s prime location—roughly equidistant between major international hubs—makes it the perfect refueling and transfer point for cargo and passenger flights. ANC consistently ranks among the world’s busiest cargo airports, with top carriers choosing this hub for its efficiency, reliability, and state-of-the-art facilities. Meanwhile, Fairbanks International Airport adds versatility by serving passenger, air cargo, and general aviation needs, creating a dynamic duo that powers Alaska’s economy. Whether you’re an airline seeking rapid turns, a business looking for a global gateway, or a traveler pursuing new horizons, the AIAS airports are uniquely equipped to deliver unparalleled convenience. Both airports are self-sustaining, funded by landing fees, user charges, and leases— ensuring continued growth without depending on state general funds. When you choose AIAS, you’re opting for an airport system dedicated to innovation, safety, and world-class service. Let AIAS be your partner in connecting people, goods, and ideas, propelling you to new heights in one seamless journey. dot.alaska.gov/aias ALASKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SYSTEM to Alaska and beyond with the DISCOVER THE GATEWAY
significantly improving operational efficiency and creating new opportunities for expansion. While the port currently handles a high volume of inbound goods, there is untapped potential in outbound shipping. “We have four container ships a week that come in here to support the population of Alaska. 80% of the containers that those folks bring in and then take back have nothing in them. So, there’s lots of opportunity without ever having to add more real estate down here to add more business,” Ribuffo confirms. With strategic investments in Alaska’s mining sector, the port could become a key export hub for mineral resources. As infrastructure improves, connecting remote mining operations to the port via rail becomes increasingly feasible. As Ribuffo succinctly puts it, “We don’t have the economic or geographic ability to have redundancy in Alaska, so we have to lean toward resiliency.” This pragmatic approach ensures that the Don Young Port of Alaska remains a steadfast pillar of the state’s economy, prepared for both present demands and future opportunities. 21 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 DON YOUNG PORT OF ALASKA
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Jacobs www.jacobs.com At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow – delivering outcomes and solutions for the world’s most complex challenges – by providing end-to-end services in advanced manufacturing, cities & places, energy, environmental, life sciences, transportation and water. From advisory and consulting, feasibility, planning, design, program and lifecycle management, we’re creating a more connected and sustainable world. n TOTE Maritime Alaska, LLC www.totemaritime.com TOTE Maritime Alaska has proudly served as a critical shipping link to Alaska for over 50 years. With twice-weekly sailings between the Lower 48 and Alaska, TOTE provides safe, reliable ocean shipping to the Last Frontier. TOTE Maritime Alaska is a proud subsidiary of the TOTE Group companies, an industry leader in transportation and logistics. n Udelhoven Oilfield System Services, Inc www.udelhoven.com Udelhoven Oilfield System Services, Inc., founded in 1970, provides expert general contracting and oil production services. With a focus on safety, quality, and customer satisfaction, we offer comprehensive engineering, procurement, and construction solutions. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a strong reputation across industries and around the world. Through strategic planning, community engagement, and a modernization effort grounded in operational efficiency, the port is set to continue its legacy as Alaska’s most critical transportation hub. The next phase of development promises to reinforce the port’s role as an indispensable asset for the state’s economic stability and growth, whether through improved infrastructure, increased cargo capacity, or enhanced seismic resilience. n Manson Construction Co. www.mansonconstruction.com Manson Construction Co. has been building the nation’s waterways and marine infrastructure for 120 years. We offer innovative solutions and engineering expertise for prominent infrastructure and energy projects. Manson adapts to fulfill the changing and complex marine infrastructure demands of North America and the global community. n AIAS (The Alaska International Airport System) www.dot.alaska.gov/aias In an ever-globalizing world, the Alaska International Airport System (AIAS) stands out as a pivotal connector for business, travel, and economic development. With Anchorage and Fairbanks bridging continents, AIAS fuels prosperity and growth, ensuring Alaskans and global partners alike benefit from streamlined connectivity, world-class airport operations, and new endless possibilities. 22 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03
WWW.PORTOFALASKA.COM/PORT-OF-ALASKA-MODERNIZATION-PROGRAM WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM AS FEATURED IN Don Young Port of Alaska
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