(ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is pleased to announce the opening of its Winter Rural Access Programs (WRAP) aimed at enhancing the safety and accessibility of Alaska's rural regions during the winter months. Our WRAP initiatives, including the Winter Trails Program, Safe Ice Routes for Alaska (SIRA) Program, and Snowmachine Trails Program, are vital for maintaining connectivity and supporting everyday travel needs and recreational activities across our state's diverse and rugged terrain.

Community Winter Trails Program
The Winter Trails Program is essential for maintaining safe routes that connect communities across Alaska. This program ensures that residents, including schoolchildren and emergency responders, can travel safely between villages and towns, reducing isolation and improving the quality of life for those in rural areas. By prioritizing these winter routes, DOT&PF supports community connectivity and accessibility throughout the colder months.

Safe Ice Routes for Alaska or SIRA Program
The SIRA Program is designed to develop and maintain ice and seasonal roads critical for travel between rural communities. These routes are especially important for accessing jobs, medical services, subsistence hunting grounds, and cultural events. This program ensures that rural Alaskans can travel safely and reliably during the winter season.

Snowmachine Trails Grant Program
Recognizing the importance of winter recreation, the Snowmachine Trails Program provides support for the maintenance of snowmachine trails across the state. This program facilitates safe and enjoyable outdoor activities, helping residents connect with Alaska's natural beauty while fostering a sense of community.

Communities, non-profits and civic organizations are encouraged to apply for these winter programs. More information on all three programs can be found on DOT&PF’s Winter Rural Access Programs (WRAP): dot.alaska.gov/wrap

Program Schedules:
Community Winter Trails Program:

• Application Open: September 9 – continuous
• Applications Due: Continuous
• Evaluation & Scoring: Continuous
• Award Announcement: Continuous

Safe Ice Routes for Alaska Program:

• Application Open: September 9 - October 14, 2024
• Applications Due: October 14, 2024
• Evaluation & Scoring: October 21 - October 25, 2024
• Award Announcement: November 1, 2024

Snowmachine Trails Grant Program:

• Application Open: September 9 - October 7, 2024
• Early Consideration Applications Due: September 23, 2024
• Applications Due: October 7, 2024
• Early Consideration Award Announced: October 14, 2024
• Evaluation & Scoring: October 14 – October 20, 2024
• Award Announcement: October 30 - November 15, 2024

The DOT&PF remains committed to supporting the unique needs of Alaska's rural communities through these vital programs. We encourage all eligible parties to apply for these opportunities to enhance safety, connectivity, and recreational enjoyment during the winter months.

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”

# # #

Main Newsroom Page