State seeks public input on Richardson Highway resurfacing project

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities is accepting public comments through May 7 on plans to resurface a three-mile stretch of the Richardson Highway between mileposts 15 and 18.

The project would include clearing vegetation, replacing ditches and guardrails, updating road striping, and performing bridge maintenance. Construction is scheduled for 2027. The work aims to improve road performance and maintain safe travel on the highway corridor north of Valdez.

Contractors would use four material sites: Sheep Creek Pit, Lowe River Quarry, 12 Mile Pit, and a fourth site designated MS 71-1-032-5. The department is conducting engineering and environmental studies to assess potential impacts to wetlands, archaeological sites, and floodplains in the project area.

Residents can view project details at rich-hwy-15-18-resurfacing-akdot.hub.arcgis.com. Comments should address resources that may be affected, including historic properties, wetlands, and invasive species concerns.

Submit comments by May 7 to Jennifer Wright, engineering manager, at 2301 Peger Road, Fairbanks, AK 99709-5316. Email [email protected] or call 907-371-8949. Text telephone users can dial 771 or 1-800-770-8973.

The Federal Highway Administration has delegated environmental review authority to the state transportation department under a 2023 memorandum of understanding.