PeoplePopulation: 52 Chiniak is an Alutiiq (Russian-Aleut) name first reported in 1888 by Lt. Commander Tanner, USN, of the steamer Albatross. It was named “Cape Greville” in 1778 by Captain Cook. During the mid-1950s, an Air Force White Alice Radar Tracking Station was constructed in Chiniak. The community is active in local issues and planning through the Chiniak Community Forum. Approximately 4% of the population is Alaska Native. EconomyThe school, post office and local roadhouses are the primary year-round employers. Several resident commute to Kodiak for employment. Many work in construction, fishing, or other seasonal industries outside of the community. Four resident hold commercial fishing permits. The Kodiak Launch Complex, a 27-acre low-Earth orbit launch complex operated by the Alaska Aerospace Development Corporation, was recently completed at Cape Narrow. The Kodiak Launch Complex is the only commercial launch range in the U.S. that is not co-located with a federal facility. According to a 2000 U.S. Census, there were approximately 32 total housing units in the community, 8 of which were vacant. Chiniak was estimated to support 38 local jobs. The official unemployment rate for Karluk at census time was estimated at 15.6%. The median household income was $14,167. TransportationChiniak can be reached by a 45 mile road from Kodiak. The City of Kodiak also offers jet service, float plane services, ferry service, and boat harbors. There is also a landing strip that may be used in emergency landings. GovernmentChiniak is an unincorporated community. There is no local government intact.
The Kodiak Area Native Association iscurrently developing an EmergencyOperations Plan for the villages on Kodiak Island. Please contact the KANA EMS Coordinator at 486-9402 for Emergency Resources and Capabilities in Chiniak. |
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Chiniak is an unincorporated community 45 air miles southeast of the City of Kodiak, on the easternmost point of Kodiak Island. Chiniak has a maritime climate, with little freezing weather, moderate precipitation, and frequent cloud cover and fog. Severe storms and wind are common from December through February. Annual precipitation is 60 inches, and temperatures generally remain within a narrow range from 30 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit. 
There are a few roadhouses in Chiniak, but no stores, lodging, or gas stations. Emergency and medical services are limited. Please visit the 
