As the busy summer tourism and vacation season comes to a close across Alaska, attention turns to another season: school. Industries and companies throughout the state have become particularly adept at multi-purposing buildings and equipment to serve both seasons proficiently.

For a prime example, look no further than the Denali Borough School District, near Denali National Park, and their Tri-Valley School in Healy. During the school year, the bus maintenance shop, operated by First Student, is used for school bus maintenance. In the summer, Carnival Corporation’s land operations for Holland America Line and Princess Cruises (HAP) utilize the same facility to maintain their fleet. This fleet transports employees living in Healy’s employee housing and ferries guests traveling to and from Denali.

The idea originated with Eric Hale, the shop’s foreman. HAP made a capital investment to bridge both seasons with a complete re-do and refresh of the dated, inefficient lighting inside the bus barn. Fifty-three fluorescent light fixtures were removed inside the shop, with only about half of those in workable or usable condition, and replaced with 23 LED high-bay fixtures spaced evenly throughout the shop. Benefits of the new LED lighting include:

• Enhanced Safety: Improved lighting creates a safer work environment for students, employees and guests.
• Increased Efficiency: Faster production times for maintenance and other projects.
• Environmental Impact: Reduced carbon and electricity footprint due to lower power consumption.

“It’s hard to overstate the importance of this upgrade for our community and students,” said Dan Polta, the superintendent of the Denali Borough School District. “HAP has been a tremendous partner over the years, and their continued support has not only enhanced our operational efficiency but also significantly contributed to local sustainability efforts.”

This innovative approach, bridging both seasons, is a testament to adaptability and community collaboration. As summer transitions to fall, this partnership illuminates a brighter future for students and employees.