Anchorage Alaska

By Ronald Dorfcob

The city of Anchorage was originally laid out by city planners in the year 1914 and it was originally intended to be a railway construction port for the Alaska railroad. During the initial period, the city’s economy was dependent on the railroad for its survival and growth. However, between the 1930s and 1950s the city saw a surge in air transportation. The Merrill Field opened in the year 1930 and Anchorage International Airport opened in the year 1951. With the construction of Elmendorf Air Base and the Fort Richardson in the early 1940s, the city’s importance as a military base increased manifold.

The city was hit by a massive earthquake on March 27th 1964 that had a magnitude of about 9.2 on the Richter scale that claimed the lives of 115 citizens.

The city’s fledgling economy received a massive boost in 1968 when oil was discovered in Prudhoe Bay. In the year of 1975 the Anchorage was merged with Girdwood, Eagle River, Glen Alps and many other communities. This merger expanded the city which is now officially known as Municipality of Anchorage.

People of Anchorage enjoy short cool summers- the average daytime temperatures in the summer range from 55-78 degrees of Fahrenheit. However, average daytime temperature in the winters can drop down as low as 5 degree Fahrenheit. The city gets a fair amount of snowfall in the winter, and it may range from several feet of snow to just two or three feet that gives rise to accident prone conditions in the streets.

According to the 2000 census the city has a population of about 260,283 and the population of the Anchorage Municipality comprises forty percent of Alaska’s total population. This city is ethnically diverse and has a harmonious blend of different cultures- the majority being the white followed by the native Alaskans and a few other ethnic groups.

There are total 94,822 households in this big city and the houses are moderately priced.
Anchorage is a major port city that receives about 95% of all major freight supplies entering the city. In addition to this, the city is also a major railroad hub. Major industries include Petroleum and Tourism- nearly every tourist must pass through Anchorage at some stage of their journey in Alaska. Summer is a busy tourist season and the city becomes crowded with tourists during this period.

The city is well connected to the rest of the world via air, railroads and the sea. The city is just six miles away from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, and is served by several well known airlines. The city is also well connected by efficient rail services and bus lines.
Various freeways crisscross the city connecting to distant parts of Alaska.

The city provides great housing options with homes that suit all kinds of pockets. The real estate industry has witnessed a big surge in the prices and the land prices are expected to rise by the end of this year.

If you plan to get your dream home in this city, do not waste any more time and get in touch with the local real estate agents to make your dream come true. Additionally, be sure to speak with a mortgage professional to ensure that you are looking for homes that you can afford!

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