ANCHORAGE - The Municipality of Anchorage, in partnership with Department of Defense’s Office of Economic Adjustment, is conducting a study regarding the impact a potential troop drawdown at JBER could have on the greater Anchorage area. The study team will consist of Northern Economics Inc., an Anchorage-based economics consulting firm, and the Anchorage office of AECOM, Inc., a global technical services firm.
Given the growing strategic role of the Arctic, JBER’s personnel and geographic location provide significant and increasing value to the long-term interests and defense of the United States.
“While we hope to dissuade Washington from a force reduction, we are taking the prudent step of preparing for its impacts,” said Mayor Berkowitz.
The impact study will begin with two public meetings, providing both information on the proposed reductions and opportunities for the public to comment on how potential reductions might affect businesses, schools, and neighborhoods.
“The proposed Army force reduction at JBER could have significant negative impacts on the Anchorage economy,” said Bill Popp, President of the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation. “This study will generate critical data and insights into the important role the Army plays in the Anchorage economy. That information will be vital to any plans to address and mitigate any economic impacts that result if the Army force reduction goes forward as announced in 2015.”
Public Meetings:
- Tuesday, March 8, 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Begich Middle School Multipurpose Room, 7440 Creekside Center Drive, Anchorage
- Wednesday, March 9, 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Gruening Middle School Multipurpose Room, 901 Lee St., Eagle River
Additional aspects of the impact study include a quantitative analysis of economic effects, as well as small group discussions and interviews with representatives of businesses and services that may be affected.
For more information, please contact Katherine Dougherty at (907) 343-6181.
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