Featured Project: Western Alaska Access Planning Study
Project: Western Alaska Access Planning Study
Company: DOWL HKM
Challenge: Analyze the potential for constructing a highway between the contiguous Alaska highway system and the isolated highway system on the Seward Peninsula to increase opportunities for economic development through access.
Clients: State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
In August 2008 the State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities contracted with a team of consultants led by DOWL HKM to analyze the potential for constructing a highway between the contiguous Alaska highway system and the isolated highway system on the Seward Peninsula. The study will evaluate the economic benefits and costs of the highway, identify a possible general route/corridor and costs, and identify actions needed to implement construction. The study is expected to be complete by December 2009.The purpose of this highway is to facilitate resource and community development in the region. The study encompasses the area west of the Dalton Highway, north of the Yukon and lower Tanana River basins, and south of the Brooks Range (see map). The length of the proposed highway is approximately 600 miles, depending on the route. Alternative routes will be identified based on potential economic benefits, topographic and environmental constraints, and land management considerations. Planning level estimates will be prepared for design, construction, and maintenance. The study will include review and updates of relevant information from previous publications and studies.