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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 1, 2019
Press Release: 19-0022
Contact: Caitlin Frye, (907)451-5307, caitlin.frye@alaska.gov

DOT&PF Opens McCarthy Road to Public Travel
Drivers are encouraged to prepare for remote travel and drive slowly.

Photo: Current conditions on the McCarthy Road are fair.
Current conditions on the McCarthy Road are fair.

(FAIRBANKS, Alaska) – McCarthy Road is now open to public travel for the summer season and will be regularly maintained until October 1.

Conditions on the unpaved, 60-mile road, which runs between the communities of Chitina and McCarthy, will remain fair to difficult throughout the summer season. Drivers can expect a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit, major rutting, rocks in the road, potholes, and soft shoulders. Current conditions are fair with a rough driving surface in areas.

Drivers are encouraged to prepare for remote travel by bringing appropriate emergency supplies including food and water, a first aid kit, extra seasonally-appropriate clothing, and spare tires. No services are available along the road.

Seasonal weight restrictions are in effect and can be checked here.

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.”

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