Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is this project taking so long?

1. ROW acquisitions and utility relocations are in progress and currently the critical path for getting this project to construction. These processes require coordination and negotiation with private landowners and agencies outside of DOT&PF. Unfortunately, this is taking longer than anticipated.

2. Why wasn’t anything done in 2025 to address this intersection as part of the re-paving project?

1. The resurfacing project that was completed in 2025 was a pavement preservation project; the funding for those types of projects limits what can be done. The geometric changes necessary at this intersection to address the safety concerns are outside what is allowed under the pavement preservation project.

3. Can an interim improvement be done?

1. The Department’s Maintenance section, in coordination with our Traffic and Safety section, installed intersection warning signs during the summer of 2021 using maintenance funds.

4. Why a roundabout? Why not a signal?

1. Roundabouts are safer than signals and will improve the operational capacity of the intersection.

5. Why not lower the speed limit now? What will the speed be through the roundabout?

1. With a few exceptions (school zones, work zones), it doesn’t do any good to only put up new speed limit signs—most drivers will continue to drive the speed that is comfortable for the geometry of the road. The approaches and roundabout are designed to reduce that comfortable speed so that drivers will naturally slow down to approximately 20 mph to go through the roundabout. For additional information regarding speed limit policy, see Policy & Procedure 05.05.020 on Establishment of Speed Limits and Zones.

6. Why not add right turn lanes to the other legs of the roundabout?

1. This was considered, but the peak traffic volumes don’t warrant them for the other approaches.

7. What will detours and closures be during construction?

1. Detours and closures will be determined by the Contractor in coordination with DOT&PF. Anticipated methods include shifted lane alignments, one lane flagging, closures on Green Forest/Engstrom, and offroute detours during various phases of construction.

8. There are other intersections like this that need improvements. Why aren't they part of this project? Will a similar project come to my neighborhood?

1. This project is specifically focused on this intersection. Please feel free to contact the MSB or our planners for questions:

   Mat-Su Core Area (MPO)
   Adam Bradway, (907) 269-0513
   Adam.Bradway@alaska.gov

   Mat-Su Area (Non-MPO)
   Kristina Huling, (907) 269-0509
   Kristina.Huling@Alaska.gov

   Mat-Su Borough PD&E
   533 E. Fireweed Avenue (Palmer)
   (907) 861-7723

    

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