Barrett chosen by feds to oversee gas pipeline

U.S. Transportation Deputy Secretary Thomas Barrett, a retired U.S. Coast Guard vice admiral, has been appointed deputy federal coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects. Barrett will be second in command in the Office of the Federal Coordinator (OFC), an independent agency which reports to the White House on Alaska gas pipeline issues. He will report directly to OFC Director Drue Pearce to direct OFC, and will manage its Alaska office.

The selection is A-OK with Governor Sarah Palin:

"Vice Admiral Barrett’s career has put him in positions to protect Alaska’s people, fisheries, and environment," Governor Palin said. "We are fortunate to have him watching over the development and construction of the Alaska natural gas pipeline. This appointment demonstrates the federal commitment to this project."

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, whose office Barett will be leaving to accept the new position, said in a statement released today that the retired Coast Guard Vice-Admiral will be missed:

"Tom Barrett leaves the Department of Transportation with my deepest gratitude for all the fine work he has done here. I was delighted that he agreed to remain in office during the transition between administrations, and his knowledge and wisdom have proved indispensable in helping us get a quick start on economic recovery and other urgent priorities."

Barrett lived in Alaska for 14 years and was the commander of the Coast Guard in that state from 1999 to 2002. AGIA coordinator Mark Myers, in another statement, welcomed Barrett back to Alaska"

"I look forward to working with Federal Coordinator Pearce, Admiral Barrett, and their entire staff. Having this quality of individual involved in moving the Alaska natural gas pipeline project forward is a benefit to Alaska and the entire nation."

The full news release from the governor's office is here.

- JP