Hypothetical question:  If in 1974, when the thought process for the Trans Alaska oil pipeline began, the people involved had enough foresight to include a gas pipeline.  What would have been the cost?  Even if not used for anything except an emergency option for oil?  
Yes, I know.  Gas was worthless back then.  However the permits were in place, the workforce was in place, the pipe manufacturers were spooled up and obviously this discussion would not be happening now.

The end result would be a much brighter economy today for the entire State of Alaska.  Perhaps there even could have been additional in-State applications for the slope gas, like a diversification of industry and employment.  Perhaps even additional revenue to the State.

But alas poor Yorick, the State had no such visionaries then and very few now.  In fact now the State politicians have shot their wad and it is political "blackmail" whether it be access to the fund or an income tax.  Or both!  Oh doom and gloom!