Frequently Asked Questions
The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF), in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), proposes to improve a 3-mile section of the Glenn Highway from Milepost (MP) 53 to 56. Currently, this section of roadway has undesirable tight curves, steep grades, and a high accident rate per vehicle mile traveled.
- Why has it taken so long to address this section of the Glenn Highway?
In 1993, DOT&PF proposed to reconstruct the Glenn Highway from the Parks Highway (MP 35 to MP 109). Given that reconstructing the entire length at one time would be disruptive to traffic and cost-prohibitive, DOT&PF broke the project into several “phases” of varying lengths. Various phases of the Glenn Highway have since been reconstructed or rehabilitated in a specific order based on a number of factors, including safety record, geometric (design) deficiencies, environmental considerations, and funding limitations. The MP 53–56 section is one of the final project phases.
- Why is DOT&PF changing the design for this segment of the highway?
Prior to 2021, DOT&PF was pursuing an alternative that realigned the highway between MP 53 and MP 56, eliminated curves, and included a new bridge over Moose Creek approximately 2,800 feet south of the existing bridge. In late 2020, DOT&PF determined that this alternative is no longer prudent due to escalating project costs, unanticipated environmental impacts, and right-of-way acquisition difficulties. Additionally, the FHWA recently revised controlling highway design criteria guidance, allowing greater flexibility for performance-based practical solutions to the unique challenges in this highway segment. Consequently, DOT&PF is now working with the FHWA to reconfigure the project to minimize these impacts while satisfying the purpose and need of the project.
- How will pedestrians and cyclists be accommodated on the new roadway?
DOT&PF reevaluated available alternatives to improve the existing roadway and replace the existing bridge. DOT&PF proposes to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists by expanding both road shoulders to a consistent 8-foot width in accordance with Alaska’s Statewide Active Transportation Plan.
- How much will this project cost, and how will it be funded?
The Glenn Highway MP 53–56 Reconstruction Project – Moose Creek Canyon is federally funded with a state match of about 9 percent. The total estimated cost of the project, which includes design, right-of-way acquisition, and utility and construction costs, is $35–40 million.
- Will the speed limit remain the same once the project is built?
At present, there are advisory speeds in the project area as low as 35 miles per hour to accommodate the tight curves, steep grades, and limited sight distances in the hills descending into and climbing out of the canyon. The project team will evaluate the speed limit as part of the design considerations.
- How much right-of-way is needed for the project? Will my property be affected?
DOT&PF will evaluate alternatives and potential right-of-way needs to improve the highway as the design progresses.
- Will this project negatively impact the salmon in Moose Creek?
No. The DOT&PF project team has coordinated with Chickaloon Village Traditional Council, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support consistency with environmental requirements related to fish habitat and protecting the health of fish populations in the project area.
- When will construction start, and how long will it take to complete?
The project manager anticipates that construction will begin in 2025. The actual construction schedule will depend on the availability of funding and other factors.
- Will the highway retain its National Scenic Byway status?
The project will not affect the National Scenic Byway status of the Glenn Highway.
- What can travelers and area residents expect during construction? Will the roadway ever be closed?
During construction, road users can expect temporary traffic delays, detours, and nighttime road closures. Construction activities such as excavation, hauling, and pile driving will create noise and dust. DOT&PF will work with construction contractors to schedule, if possible, noise-producing construction activities to minimize impacts on area residents.
DOT&PF will outline construction requirements and provide them to the construction contractor.
DOT&PF will also conduct active coordination/notification with the public, agencies, emergency services, and others during any closures.
- How can I provide feedback on the project or become more involved?
You can participate in the Glenn Highway MP 53–56 Reconstruction Project – Moose Creek Canyon in several ways:
- Sign up for our email contact list – receive meeting notices, project announcements, and other up-to-date information in your email inbox.
- Attend a public meeting – attend a meeting to learn more about the project and to have your voice heard.
- Leave a comment for the project team – leave a comment by downloading a PDF comment form and sending it via email to info@glennhighwayatmoosecreek.com or visit the Contact Us page for further options.
- How can I stay up to date on this project?
Future public meetings will be advertised online and throughout the project area. Visit the project website if you would like to sign up to receive news and updates regarding the Glenn Highway MP 53–56 Reconstruction Project – Moose Creek Canyon delivered to your inbox.
- Where should I direct additional questions about the project?
You can email the project team directly at info@glennhighwayatmoosecreek.com. If you have a question for the Project Manager or Public Involvement Lead, contact them using the information below:
Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
Clint Adler, Project Manager
Email: Clint.Adler@alaska.gov
Phone: 907-269-0544
HDR Public Involvement
Email: info@glennhighwayatmoosecreek.com
Phone: 907-644-2000
