(a) The commissioner of natural resources may approve applications for construction of developmental access roads under AS 19.30.020 - 19.30.051.

(b) A request for construction assistance shall be submitted to the commissioner of natural resources by the resource developer, setting out the scope of the development and the resources to be developed.

(c) The commissioner of natural resources shall review the application and, if found feasible and participating funds are available, may enter into a contract in which the state will participate with the applicant in the cost of construction of the road, up to $50,000 or up to 50 percent of the cost, whichever is lower; however, the applicant shall pay for all right-of-way acquisition.

(d) For purposes of (c) of this section, “cost of construction” includes, in addition to costs directly related to the project, the sum total of all costs of financing and carrying out the project. These include, but are not limited to, the costs of all necessary studies, surveys, plans and specifications, architectural, engineering or other special services, acquisition of real property, site preparation and development, purchase, construction, reconstruction, and improvement of real property and the acquisition of machinery and equipment as may be necessary in connection with the project; an allocable portion of the administrative and operating expenses of the grantee; the cost of financing the project, including interest on bonds issued to finance the project; and the cost of other items, including any indemnity and surety bonds and premiums on insurance, legal fees, fees and expenses of trustees, depositaries, financial advisors, and paying agents for the bonds issued as the issuer considers necessary.