Anchorage's Chugach Way rehab study opens with floodplain warning

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities filed a formal notice to begin engineering and environmental studies for Chugach Way between Spenard Road and Arctic Boulevard in Anchorage, soliciting public comments through a window that closes July 31.

The notice includes a floodplain encroachment review, a procedural step that initiates evaluation of whether the project would affect any mapped floodplain along the corridor. DOT&PF is acting under 23 U.S.C. 327, meaning the agency has assumed federal environmental review authority from the Federal Highway Administration and holds accountability for any floodplain findings. DOT&PF technical guidance on floodplain encroachments under NEPA requires evaluation of whether an encroachment is functionally dependent or temporary, and notes that a previously undocumented encroachment discovered during review may require hydraulic analysis and a change in the project's environmental review class. The Municipality of Anchorage separately requires a Flood Hazard Permit for all new construction in the floodplain and mandates elevation at least one foot above the 100-year flood elevation.

"The purpose of the proposed project is to improve safety, extend the service life of Chugach Way, and address deteriorating pavement conditions and aging infrastructure," the agency said. Construction is anticipated in summer 2030.

Written comments are due July 31 to Regional Environmental Manager Heidi Zimmer at DOT&PF Preliminary Design and Environmental in Anchorage. Questions can be directed to Project Manager Ryan Harris at (907) 269-0568 or [email protected].