laskans talk about transportation a lot. And for good reason: getting around the state can be challenging and expensive. Ensuring all communities—small and large—have access to the goods and services they need is challenging and expensive. The good news is that there are many people and companies dedicated to transporting the goods and services needed to keep Alaska in business, in comfort, and in good health. The not-so-good news is that in recent years, Alaska’s infrastructure needs are not being met due to a lack of state funding. Perhaps most in peril at this point in time is the Alaska Marine Highway System, which is facing an uncertain future as state officials consider Governor Mike Dunleavy’s proposed $97 million in budget cuts designed to address a projected $1.6 billion shortfall, due to reduced revenue from the oil industry.

There are many points of contention related to Dunleavy’s budget, but what may be being missed is a much bigger question than whether these cuts are warranted. Is it possible that Alaska’s oil industry is shouldering too much of the responsibility when it comes to paying for infrastructure and crucial programs? The recession we are crawling out of has made it all too clear that when oil production or prices decline, so does the state’s ability to pay for essential services, such as the ferry system. Like many businesses have needed to do over the past few years, it’s time for Alaska’s officials to find ways to diversify its income.