Transportation

The Chilkoot Indian Association Transportation Department works to improve transportation infrastructure, accessibility, safety, and economic development opportunities for Tribal citizens and the greater Haines community.

Since its establishment in 2001, the department has planned, designed, funded, and constructed transportation projects that enhance mobility while supporting community growth and Tribal self-determination. Through federal transportation funding and strategic partnerships, the department invests in projects that benefit Tribal members and the entire Haines area.

Today, the Transportation Department's work extends beyond roads and trails to include marine infrastructure, accessibility improvements, community development projects, and transportation planning for future generations.

Recent and Ongoing Projects

Community Facilities Initiative (CFI) Grant

The Chilkoot Indian Association recently received a Community Facilities Initiative (CFI) grant to purchase the former gas station property located on Haines Highway. This property will be redeveloped into a community-focused transportation and economic development hub featuring:

• A food truck pod supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses
• Public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure
• Improved visitor and community amenities
• Enhanced economic opportunities for Tribal members and local businesses

BUILD Grant – Marine Infrastructure Planning

The Transportation Department was awarded a BUILD Grant planning award to evaluate and plan improvements to the Tribe's marine infrastructure facilities.

This project will support long-term planning for upgrades to the Tribal dock facility, helping ensure the infrastructure remains safe, resilient, and capable of supporting future transportation and economic opportunities in Haines.

Transportation Improvements in Partnership with the Haines Borough

The Chilkoot Indian Association has a long history of partnering with the Haines Borough on transportation projects that improve accessibility and quality of life for all residents.
Recent collaborative projects include:

• ADA Accessible Ramp – Tlingit Park 
  Completed construction of a new ADA-accessible pedestrian ramp connecting the Small Boat Harbor parking area to Tlingit Park, improving accessibility and access to public spaces.
• Small Boat Harbor Sidewalk Improvements
  Provided funding support and partnership assistance for construction of new sidewalks serving the Small Boat Harbor area, improving pedestrian safety and connectivity.
• Fair Drive Paving Project
  Partnered to pave Fair Drive, improving roadway conditions, safety, and year-round accessibility for residents and visitors.
• Dual-Language Wayfinding Signage
  Installed dual-language street and wayfinding signs throughout downtown Haines featuring both Lingít (Tlingit) and English. This project supports language revitalization efforts while highlighting the cultural heritage of the Chilkoot Tlingit people.

The Chilkoot Indian Association remains committed to developing transportation systems that are safe, reliable, accessible, and reflective of our values as a Tribal Nation.