On the previous day, President Donald J. Trump greenlit the appeal for Alaska’s Ambler Road Project, a critical development of a 211-mile industrial roadway linking the Dalton Highway to the extensive mineral resources in northwest Alaska. This decision reverses a previous rejection by the Biden administration, furthering the pursuit of American energy independence and lessening reliance on foreign nations for essential resources linked to national security, economic progress, and technology advancements.
The announcement was promptly celebrated by Alaskan officials and mining advocates as a significant victory for employment growth, regional wealth, and reinforced domestic supply chains:
Governor Mike Dunleavy: “This decision will unlock development opportunities, generate new jobs for Alaskans, and ensure access to crucial minerals. Thank you @POTUS”
Senator Dan Sullivan: “I express my gratitude to President Trump and his administration, particularly Secretary of Interior Doug Burgum, for approving this appeal through Section 1106 of ANILCA, rectifying the Biden administration’s unjust denial of access for the Ambler Access Project. This appeal is a tremendous win for Alaska, our workers, and America’s national security, reducing our reliance on China for critical minerals. I had a conversation with the President regarding this vital announcement, and he reaffirmed his strong commitment to advancing the Ambler Access Project along with many other significant initiatives for our state, including the King Cove Road and the Alaska LNG Project. I maintain that the Ambler Access Project must proceed with diligent consultation with Alaska Native and community leaders while respecting our environmental and subsistence needs. We made remarkable strides in these areas under the prior Trump administration, but the Biden administration halted the project along with thousands of promising jobs and improved living standards throughout the region. I’m pleased to see this essential project for our state’s economy being revived.”
Senator Lisa Murkowski: “I appreciate President Trump for making this determination and revitalizing the Ambler project after it was sidelined by political motives at the conclusion of the Biden administration. Congress solidified this project’s approval in federal law in 1980 as part of a compromise for the preservation of over 100 million acres in Alaska, and its national importance is greater now than ever. The President’s re-approval will unlock a premier mining area, deliver enhanced living standards for local communities, and aid in Alaska’s economic growth. Furthermore, it will bolster our national security by enhancing our mineral independence and allowing us to produce critical resources domestically. I look forward to federal organizations promptly reinstating permits and authorizations so the Ambler project can advance, and to collaborating with local populations and Alaska Native Corporations to guarantee the project is a success.”
Representative Nick Begich: “The Ambler Mining District represents a strategic asset for Alaska and an important avenue for critical mineral advancement in the U.S.,” stated Congressman Begich. “By pushing this access forward, we are generating new opportunities for Alaskans while fortifying America’s supply chain and decreasing reliance on foreign adversaries for our mineral needs. I commend the President’s decision to endorse this appeal, and I look forward to collaborating with the Administration, state officials, and Alaska Native communities to ensure this project progresses in a manner that benefits all Alaskans.”
Deantha Skibinski, Executive Director of the Alaska Miners Association: “We express our gratitude to President Trump for overturning the detrimental 2024 decision concerning the Ambler Road Project and prioritizing access to Alaska’s critical minerals. The previous administration’s nearly unprecedented ‘no action’ stance regarding the Ambler Road project and blatant refusal to grant promised access under the Alaska National Interest Land Claims Act (ANILCA) was inexcusable. With consistent policies in place, Alaska stands poised to supply the nation with the vital minerals needed for national security and economic stability.”
Kaleb Froehlich, Managing Director of Ambler Metals: “We express our thanks to President Trump, his administration, and Congress members for acknowledging the significance of the Ambler Road for both Alaska and the nation. The road will secure the essential minerals required for our country’s economic vitality and defense, while concurrently providing meaningful advantages locally. For rural Alaskans, this road symbolizes opportunity, high-paying positions, crucial funding for isolated communities, and a chance to cultivate a more resilient local economy. It’s a bridge to both national strength and regional prosperity.”
Warwick Smith, CEO of American Pacific Mining Corp.: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Trilogy Metals and the Alaskans who have tirelessly worked for years to see the responsible development progress. Under President Trump, we are witnessing genuine momentum for resource exploration in Alaska. We are optimistic about the future for Palmer and all initiatives contributing to America’s critical mineral supply.”
Graham Kerr, CEO of South32: “We recognize significant value in the U.S. Government’s plan to develop the Ambler Mining District. Our goal is to unlock the region’s potential, secure critical mineral supply chains for the United States, and foster sustainable economic activities that provide value for Alaska, especially for communities in the nearby areas.”
Tony Giardini, President and CEO of Trilogy Metals: “This landmark decision marks a pivotal moment for Trilogy and the future of domestic critical mineral advancements in the United States. The Ambler Road is not merely a route to economic progress in Alaska—it is a strategic asset for the nation. With the support of the President and federal agencies, we are confident this project will advance in a manner that honors both the land and the people who inhabit it.”
Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse, Chairman of Valhalla Metals: “We are thrilled that the Trump Administration has overturned the preceding administration’s misguided ‘No Action Alternative’ ruling regarding the Ambler Access Road Supplemental EIS. The decision made by the previous administration contradicted the clear directives established by ANILCA. Utilizing Section 1106 to rectify what was a wrongful decision aligns precisely with Congress’s intent at the time ANILCA was enacted 45 years ago. Thank you, President Trump! We can now resume our exploration efforts to expand the known resources at the Sun deposit.”
