Stevens Secures Earmarks for Coast Guard in Alaska

3 Oct 2008 // Congress approved a continuing resolution over the weekend which included several provisions, authored by Sen. Ted Stevens, benefiting the Coast Guard.

The continuing resolution allocates $6.19 billion to the Coast Guard for operating expenses.

Of that money, Stevens’ earmarks designate $7.6 million to operate the cutter Acushnet, based in Ketchikan, with a crew of 120. The provision saved the Acushnet from being decommissioned.

A separate provision earmarks $11.6 million for Coast Guard housing in Cordova.

The Coast Guard Base in Kodiak will receive $18.5 million for basic operations and maintenance, a Stevens spokesman said.

Kodiak also can expect to receive further money from the general funds once the Coast Guard decides how to allocate it, the spokesman said.

“This bill strengthens the Coast Guard’s presence in Alaska by providing funds for operations and construction of family housing,” according to a press release from Stevens’ office.