Work on KGB project continues

Even though the temperatures indicate fall is moving in quickly, road construction projects are underway.

Work on Knik-Goose Bay (KGB) Phase I project, between the Palmer-Wasilla extension and Donovan Drive, continues with anticipated work on traffic signals as work begins transferring service to permanent signal systems. Throughout the week, drivers can anticipate flagger control at different intersections along KGB, from Clapp-Fairview Loop and the Fen intersections, up to KGB and Palmer-Wasilla intersection on September 18 and 19.

The work will be taking place during the day so traffic officials can appropriately test and startup the new systems. Drivers are asked to remain alert to the changes and follow traffic control personnel for navigation.

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) announced that they are making preparations now for next season’s anticipated rehabilitation work on the Knik River Bridges.

Preliminary work on this project is set to begin on Tuesday, September 17, weather permitting, by milling and paving the road, then constructing a temporary road the crosses over the median before and after the bridges.

The temporary roads will serve as detours while the rest of the bridge work continues next year.

The DOT&PF says that most of the work will be completed during the evening hours, so drivers should not feel much impact during their commute. However, drivers should expect lane closures and workers near the road. The Knik River Bridges will remain open during construction, which is expected to last until October.

The DOT&PF are working to rehabilitate three bridges along the Glenn Highway: the northbound and southbound Knik River bridges, just south of the Glenn/Parks interchange, and the northbound Peters Creek bridge near Chugiak. All three of these bridges are over 30 years old, with two nearing 60 years old: the northbound Knik River bridge and northbound Peters Creek Bridge were both constructed in the 1960s.

The bridges have potholes, ruts, and other maintenance issues that need to be repaired. The purpose of this work is to extend the service lives of the bridges, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance safety.

Work on this project will include repairing potholes in the concrete decks, installing a concrete overlay to waterproof the bridges and reduce corrosion, replacing the approach slabs to improve the driving surface, replacing damaged drainage hardware, and guardrail as needed, and working on utilities as needed.

When the construction is completed, drivers will be able to enjoy a smoother driving experience heading to and from Anchorage.

For more information, please visit https://dot.alaska.gov/creg/1r/glenn/