(ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – Governor Mike Dunleavy and the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) are pleased to welcome U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy to Alaska this week. The visit underscores Alaska's strong alignment with USDOT priorities, including roadway safety, efficient project delivery, and strategic infrastructure investments to support the state's economy and communities.

"Alaska shares Secretary Duffy's commitment to safer roads, faster project delivery, and infrastructure that meets both local and national needs," said DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. "We look forward to showcasing our work and exploring opportunities to strengthen our partnership with USDOT."

Alaska has been a leader in implementing USDOT's Safe Arterials for Everyone through Reliable Operations and Distraction-Reducing Strategies (SAFE ROADS) initiative, which targets safer roadway design, reduced distractions, and improved mobility for all users. The state recently adopted its own SAFEROADS Action Plan, which uses data-driven strategies to address the highest-priority locations for safety improvements.

Since 2017, Alaska has been a NEPA Assignment state, assuming federal environmental review responsibilities for highway projects under the National Environmental Policy Act. This authority has allowed the state to streamline reviews, shorten project timelines, and reduce costs while maintaining rigorous environmental protections. DOT&PF is actively working with USDOT to explore expanding this authority to cover additional transportation modes.

During Secretary Duffy's visit, DOT&PF will also highlight active construction projects that deliver safety improvements, modernize bridges, and support resource development in Alaska's critical economic corridors—including work along the Dalton Highway, a key route for energy and mineral development.

"Alaska's vast geography and strategic location require infrastructure solutions that are modern, resilient, and agile," Anderson added. "We are eager to demonstrate how our projects and policies advance these shared goals."

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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.”