Legislative briefs

Midline rumble strips pushed for safety

JUNEAU -- An Anchorage Democrat says putting rumble strips on the center line of high-traffic roads could reduce driving accidents and fatalities.

State Rep. Les Gara said he wants to know what it would cost to get rumble strips on high-traffic stretches of road and how that compares with state plans to put them in highway safety corridor areas.

Frank Richards, a deputy commissioner within the Transportation Department, told the House Finance Committee Monday that it would cost about $850,000 to put rumble strips in areas the department deems appropriate. But Gara said that doesn't answer his question. He said he hopes to follow up with the department and perhaps seek a budget line item for additional rumble strips.

-- The Associated Press

In-state gas pipeline jump start proposed

JUNEAU -- House Speaker Mike Chenault wants to create a team within the governor's office to jump-start an in-state natural gas line.

The Republican is proposing the team be led by the chief executive of the Alaska Railroad Corp. and charged with details like choosing the most "economically sound" route and dealing with permitting. The team would be advised by a steering committee including lawmakers, department heads and others.

Chenault said he's been frustrated by the lack of progress on a line so far. He'd like to have construction begin by July 2011, and gas flowing by 2015.

In-state gas line coordinator Bob Swenson said the project is on track. But he said he appreciates the passion people feel for the project and the constructive criticism.

-- The Associated Press