AGC Executive Director Alicia Kresl will address the Fairbanks Chamber at the first luncheon of 2026 with a timely discussion on the future of Alaska&rsquo\;s construction industry and the launch of AGC&rsquo\;s new \;Meet the Match \;campaign.
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\n\nAlaska&rsquo\;s ability to build and maintain critical infrastructure depends on one key decision this legislative session: whether the state meets its required match to unlock federal transportation funding. At the luncheon\, Alicia will explain how a relatively small state investment can secure significant federal dollars for shovel‑\;ready projects across the Interior&mdash\;and what&rsquo\;s at stake for jobs\, public safety\, and the 2026 construction season if action is delayed.
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\n\nThis is a critical moment for Alaska&rsquo\;s construction industry\, and for communities that rely on safe roads\, airports\, and freight corridors. Members are encouraged to attend\, learn more about AGC&rsquo\;s Meet the Match campaign\, and hear how this legislative session will shape infrastructure investment and economic opportunity across the state.
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\n\n"\;MEET THE MATCH"\;
\nAlaska&rsquo\;s roads\, bridges\, and airports are built through a partnership between the state and the federal government. When Alaska meets the federal match\, a relatively small state investment unlocks more than half a billion dollars for transportation projects statewide.
\nFederal highway funding works on a 9-to-1 match &mdash\; for every $1 Alaska contributes\, the federal government provides about $9. If the state does not meet the match\, those federal dollars are lost to other states.
\nAs of December 2025\, the match has not yet been met. Governor Dunleavy&rsquo\;s budget includes a $70 million supplemental to restore the match and keep projects moving.
\nIf action isn&rsquo\;t taken soon\, summer construction projects could be delayed\, affecting jobs\, local businesses\, safety improvements\, and community connectivity. The state fiscal year ends June 30\, 2026\, making this a time-sensitive decision.
\nMeeting the federal match keeps Alaska&rsquo\;s transportation projects on schedule and strengthens communities across the state.