Russia plans tunnel to link Siberia and Alaska

International Press Tribune ^ | April 18, 2007 | Andrew E. Kramer

[Clintonfatigued]

Russia introduced a plan Wednesday to build a tunnel between Siberia and Alaska under the Bering Strait, saying the $65 billion project could be used to export Russian oil, natural gas and electricity to the United States.

While two officials at the Ministry of Economy endorsed the idea, they made clear that the Russian government had not signed off on it, other than to agree to a study on how to bridge the 93 kilometers, or 58 miles, of icy water that divides the Eastern and Western Hemispheres at their closest point.

Plans for a land link over the strait were first floated in the 19th century and have periodically been revived since; the latest twist is an emphasis on the link's being used for exporting energy and natural resources, the mainstay of the Russian economy.

The Russian national electric company and state railroad endorsed the plan Wednesday, adding a patina of credibility to an idea often dismissed as a colossal waste of money, even if it were found technically feasible.

Earlier justifications for the project, from creating a transportation corridor to building a symbol of political unity between Russia and the United States, have met with little sympathy in either country.

[RightWhale]

I was surprised to learn that the bridge from Alaska to Siberia was considered shortly after the Alaska purchase from Russia at the end of the Civil War. But then, it was equally surprising to learn that the canal connecting the Danube to the Rhine was considered by Charlemagne. Anyway, the former Governor is in Moscow to see about getting this $65 billion project underway. There is still some laughter about the Hickel Highway, but the Alaska Railroad was originally planned to go to the North Slope rather than stop in Fairbanks in the middle of nowhere.

[gonzo]

"...I was surprised to learn that the bridge from Alaska to Siberia was considered shortly after the Alaska purchase from Russia at the end of the Civil War. But then, it was equally surprising to learn that the canal connecting the Danube to the Rhine was considered by Charlemagne..."

Massive projects like this always seem to promote understanding and business! The Suez and Panama Canals, the Chunnel, etc., just make things better overall.

But then, I'm an engineer and I like $hit like this .............. FRegards

[Eska]

Funny how some of Hickel’s pipedreams aren’t viewed quite with ridicule today.

[RightWhale]

Hickel is great, no question. Another good Gov was Cowper, although that sentiment is not popular.

[SunkenCiv]

Montage of scenes previewing show “It couldn’t be done.” Band 5th Dimension aboard a boat singing song If I had a Hammer.
Location: United States
Date: 1970
Duration: 2 min 8 sec
Sound: Yes
http://www.criticalpast.com/video/65675023493_It-couldnt-be-done_Television-program_Lee-Marvin_5th-Dimension_Hoover-Dam

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0204417/companycredits?ref_=ttrel_sa_4