The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been gathering data on traffic accidents for the last several decades. Based on miles driven, Alaska’s rate of injuries and deaths is the fourth highest in the nation. In 2014, this resulted in 73 fatalities and over 4,500 injuries. Statistically, traveling on roads in Alaska is not the safest mode of transportation.
In Southeast, there is a safer alternative. Though the state’s Environmental Impact Statement on the Juneau Access Project failed to note this fact, traveling on Alaska’s Marine Highway System has an admirable record — no fatal traffic accidents or serious injuries on board in its 50-plus-year history of operation.
The arguments in favor of the Juneau Access Project should pale before the well-being of the traveling public.
James Axel Wilson,
Haines