Today marks an historic milestone for Alaska’s transportation infrastructure and economic future. I was proud to join U.S. Department of Transportation @SecDuffy and @SenDanSullivan to announce $249 million for the Port MacKenzie Rail Extension, a transformational investment that will help create new opportunities for economic growth across our state. This funding will support the construction of a 32-mile rail connection linking Port MacKenzie to the Alaska Railroad's existing mainline, providing a more direct and efficient route for transporting Alaska's minerals and energy resources to domestic and international markets. For decades, Alaskans have recognized the tremendous potential of Port MacKenzie. But realizing that potential requires sustained investment and the determination to see critical infrastructure projects through to completion. As Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Railroads and Pipelines in the U.S. House, I have worked to ensure Alaska's unique infrastructure needs remain a priority in Washington. Earlier this year, we helped secure a $34 million federal investment to expand Port MacKenzie's cargo handling capabilities and supporting infrastructure. Today's $249 million announcement represents another major step toward building the transportation network necessary to support long-term development at the port. These investments build on one another. Expanding port capacity is essential but connecting that capacity to Alaska's broader transportation network is what will allow us to fully capitalize on the opportunities ahead. I want to thank Secretary Duffy for recognizing the strategic importance of Alaska's transportation infrastructure, Senator Sullivan for his continued partnership, and the Alaska Railroad Corporation, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and countless Alaskans who have worked for years to advance this project. Major infrastructure projects do not happen overnight, and today's announcement is the result of sustained efforts to turn a long-standing vision into reality. There is still work ahead, and I remain committed to advancing these investments through the next stages of development and construction.