Nenana

Nenana is a city located in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area of the U.S. state of Alaska. At the 2010 census, the population was 378, down from 402 in 2000. Nenana developed as a Lower Tanana community at the confluence of the Nenana River and the Tanana River. It was one of the major Athabaskan Indian settlements in the Tanana valley.

History

The town of Nenana came into being as a trading post for the Athabaskan Indians and gold miners in the early 20th century. The construction of the Alaska Railroad brought more settlers to the area. The city is also known for the Nenana Ice Classic, a lottery where participants guess when the ice on the Tanana River will break.

Geography

Nenana is located at 64°33′40″N 149°5′37″W (64.561119, -149.093674). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.1 square miles (16 km2), of which, 6.0 square miles (16 km2) of it is land and 0.1 square miles (0.26 km2) of it (1.63%) is water.

Demographics

As of the census of 2000, there were 402 people, 160 households, and 101 families residing in the city. The population density was 67.3 people per square mile (26.0/km²). There were 197 housing units at an average density of 33.0 per square mile (12.7/km²).

Economy

The economy of Nenana is primarily based on government services, which provide the majority of employment opportunities in the city. Other sectors include retail trade, transportation, and warehousing.

Education

The Nenana City School District operates the Nenana City Public School.

Health Care

The Interior Alaska Service Unit of the Indian Health Service (IHS) provides health services to the city of Nenana.

Transportation

Nenana is served by the Nenana Municipal Airport, which provides scheduled and charter air service.