Alaska Statutes Title 42. Public Utilities and Carriers and Energy Programs § 42.40.465. Extension of the Alaska Railroad to connect with the North American railroad system

(1) safety;

(2) grade and alignment standards that are commensurate with rail and utility construction standards and that minimize the prospect of at-grade railroad and highway crossings;

(3) availability of construction materials;

(4) effects on and service to adjacent communities and potential intermodal transportation connections;

(5) environmental concerns;

(6) use of public land to the maximum degree possible;

(7) minimization of probable construction costs;

(8) the location of and the opportunity to obtain access to identified natural resources that could contribute significantly to the economic development of the state and Canada;

(9) avoidance of possibly unstable ground due to thawing of frozen soils; and

(10) prior and established traditional uses.