Governor signs causeway bill into law

ANCHORAGE - Gov. Sarah Palin signed a bill into law that creates the Fort Rousseau Causeway Park in Southeast Alaska.

The causeway is a grouping of small islands linked by an 800-foot dirt path offshore of downtown Sitka and contains numerous World War II-era fortifications.

According to a press release from the governor's office, the area also has roots in the Tlingit culture and may contain grave sites.

Under House Bill 176 - sponsored by state Rep. Peggy Wilson, R-Wrangell, and signed Tuesday by Palin - management of 58 acres will be transferred to the state Department of Natural Resources, allowing for needed improvements to be addressed.