Tourism

Dunleavy’s administration is likely to shift the complex dynamics between the different entities and interests involved in Alaska’s fish and wildlife politics – from the state and federal governments to tribes, hunting organizations and fishing groups.

The city hopes a proposed land exchange with the owner of a waterfront property on South Franklin Street will help accommodate the continued growth in the number of cruise ship passengers visiting Juneau each year. But a recent court ruling may complicate how the city pays for the project.

The Hoonah City Council has already tentatively agreed to lease city-owned tidelands. The 500-foot dock would be built in partnership by Huna Totem Corporation and Norwegian Cruise Lines.

A federal judge rules Juneau city officials spent marine passenger fees too freely. The ruling upholds the constitutionality of collecting fees but constrains their future use.

The $5-per-passenger head tax has been around since 1999, when Juneau voters voted it into effect. But the city is still waiting on a decision in a cruise industry lawsuit over how the fees are spent.

If built, the motoplex would offer different types of racing including drag races, go-kart races, motocross, legends-car races and bicycle races.