State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF)

Notice to Begin Engineering and Engineering Studies/Request for Public Comments

Steese Highway MP 5 Bridge #1342 Replacement

Project 0670046/NFHWY00781

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) invites you to submit questions and comments regarding a project to replace bridge #1342 on the Steese Highway at milepost 5. The purpose of this project is to replace the Chena Hot Springs undercrossing bridge to eliminate the need for bypass for heavy loads on a critical freight route connecting Interior Alaska to the North Slope. The existing bridge is 45-years old with an initial design life of 50-years, so we are proactively replacing this bridge to avoid the possibility of load restricting it. It also includes roadside hardware, drainage improvements, and utilities.

We are currently working on conceptual designs, engineering, and environmental studies, as well as soliciting public comments. Construction is currently planned for summer 2023.

View the project website here: https://steese-highway-mp-5-bridge-1342-replacement-akdot.hub.arcgis.com/

DOT&PF requests information and comments on resources in the project area that may be affected including historic properties, archaeological sites, and wetlands. The following Executive Orders (EO) apply:

EO 11990, Notice of Wetland Involvement
EO 12898, Environmental Justice
EO 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment

EO 13112, Invasive Species

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this proposed are being, or have been, carried out by DOT&PF pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and Memorandum of Understanding dated November 3, 2017 and executed by Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and DOT&PF.

DOT&PF operates all programs without regard to race, religion, color, gender, age, marital status, ability, or national origin. Full Title VI Nondiscrimination Policy: dot.alaska.gov/tvi_statement.shtml

Please submit comments by March 27, 2023 to:

Jennifer Wright, P.E.
2301 Peger Road, Fairbanks AK 99709
Telephone: (907) 371-8949
Text Telephone (TDD): 771 or 1-800-770-8973
Email: jennifer.wright@alaska.gov