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🌱 Patch AM: How JBER’s $7 billion expansion could squeeze Anchorage housing

Happening soon: 2026 ASAA XC Championships on the Anchorage Patch calendar

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Friday October 2nd Patch AM
Friday October 2nd Patch AM (Tonya B.)

Hi Anchorage! We have the latest buzz right here. Let's keep you in the loop and get this morning started right! ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • How JBER's $7 billion expansion could squeeze Anchorage housing
  • Thinking about a backyard unit? See Anchorage's new preapproved ADU options
  • How Anchorage outreach workers are racing to fill new winter shelter beds

Also on today's calendar: Short Hike at Hillside Park and 9 more events.

And lastly, we have a post from a neighbor, Tonya B.!

Today's riddle: Why did the girl pig break up with the boy pig? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Friday: Sunny and chilly, with a high of 45 and low of 31 degrees.
  • Saturday: Cloudy and chilly, temps: high: 43, low: 38.
  • Sunday: Cloudy with showers around, with a high of 46 and low of 41 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. $7 Billion Base Expansion Plans in Anchorage Raise New Housing Concerns (military.com) — Anchorage could see thousands of new Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson personnel arrive under a proposed $7 billion expansion, but without added housing money many may struggle to find affordable homes. Local assembly members and JBER officials warn that already high Anchorage rents and home prices, combined with fixed military housing allowances, could squeeze both service members and civilians unless new funding and development plans emerge soon.
   

2. A Guide to Preapproved ADU Plans in Your City (dwell.com) — Anchorage homeowners now have access to two free, preapproved accessory dwelling unit (ADU) designs that can speed up permitting and expand housing options citywide. The guide explains local housing shortages, key ADU size and zoning rules in the Anchorage Bowl, and step‑by‑step instructions for zoning reviews, utility checks, and permit applications so residents can realistically plan a backyard unit.
   

3. Outreach workers race to fill Anchorage shelter beds. Sometimes it's a tough sell. (adn.com) — Anchorage outreach teams are hustling to fill 40 new city-funded winter shelter beds at Linda's Place and the 56th Avenue facility, aiming to reduce deaths among people living outside. The story follows outreach worker Emily Robinson and several unhoused residents as they weigh strict shelter rules, safety concerns, and the hope of more stable housing options in Anchorage.
   

4. 🇺🇸 Alaska Forum 2027 to convene Alaska and Arctic professionals in Anchorage, February 1–5 (arctictoday.com) — Anchorage will host the Alaska Forum 2027 at the Dena'ina Center February 1–5, bringing together environmental, Tribal, government, and industry professionals from across Alaska and the Arctic. Locals can expect more than 100 technical sessions, a grants training track, and chances to collaborate on issues like energy, public health, infrastructure, and subsistence.
   

5. UAA hockey opens a new season and era by taking on the reigning national champs (adn.com) — Anchorage hockey fans can watch UAA open its new era under head coach Eric Rud this Friday and Saturday at Sullivan Arena against reigning national champion Denver. The series also brings home Anchorage native David Carle, Denver's coach, and features hometown forward Aiden Westin, as a largely rebuilt Seawolf roster looks to make an early-season statement.
   

📸 Around Anchorage

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📸 Kincaid area beautiful fall leaves! —Tonya B. Like

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Borealis Coffee House …next door to the Pet Stop on Dimond Blvd.
    (1921 West Dimond Blvd. Suite 106) They have a wonderful menu with lots of choices. Many different kinds of Eggs Benedict and so many other… (Nextdoor Sand Lake West)
  • My friends dog got out at around 1 pm today.
    Please keep an eye out for him! From owner: We live near Wonder Park Elementary off of Boniface. He has been reported missing to AARF, Animal… (Nextdoor Russian Jack Park)
  • Glass Doctor posted a job opening for Glazier in Wasilla. Apply here.
  • Pet Food Experts, Inc. posted a job opening for PetZoo Cashier - Part Time in Wasilla. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Anchorage here.

Ok Anchorage! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: "Why did the girl pig break up with the boy pig?" — Because he was such a boar! (Thank you Theresa H. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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