Alaska Railroad: Federal Role Should End; Some Management Problems Remain
CED-82-9
Published: Feb 25, 1982. Publicly Released: Feb 25, 1982.
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Highlights
Because of pervasive weaknesses in the management of the Alaska Railroad and recent congressional interest, GAO re-examined the question of the Railroad's ownership.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Congress should enact legislation leading to termination of the Federal Government's ownership and operation of the Alaska Railroad. |
Closed – Implemented
|
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information. |
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Transportation | The Secretary of Transportation should institute a plan for periodic, independent financial audits of the Alaska Railroad's operations as well as other comprehensive audits necessary to identify and follow up on management problems. |
Closed – Not Implemented
On July 12, 1984, the Department of Transportation announced that the state of Alaska had agreed to purchase the Alaska Railroad from the federal government. Thus, this recommendation no longer applies because ownership of the railroad will be transferred to the state of Alaska in January 1985.
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