Phase 1 Federal Project No. 0221(018) | Phase 2 Federal Project No. CFHWY00253 | Phase 2 Federal Project No. 0221(019)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the project?
The purpose is to reduce congestion and improve safety on the Kenai Spur Highway.
- What will the improved highway look like?
The Kenai Spur Highway Rehabilitation Project is widening the existing highway to five lanes: four 12-foot through lanes (two in each direction) with two 8-foot shoulders and a 14-foot center Two-Way Left-Turn Lane (TWLTL). At some intersections, the center lane will become a dedicated left-turn lane. These project improvements will match the section of Kenai Spur Highway from S. Forest Drive to Swires Road and carry that same design through to Sports Lake Road.
- Why are these improvements needed?
The Kenai Spur Highway serves as a critical link between the communities of Kenai and Soldotna. Lying between two five-lane segments, MP 2.4 to 8.1 of the highway bottlenecks to two lanes. This 5.7-mile section of highway has crash rates higher than the statewide average, and also has the second-highest rate of moose collisions in Alaska.
- How will this project improve safety and reduce collisions?
The continuous Two-Way Left-Turn Lane (TWLTL) will provide greater separation for opposing traffic, reducing the risk of head-on collisions. It will also remove vehicles waiting to make left-turns from through lanes, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. Continuous lighting will provide improved visibility for drivers to avoid moose or other roadway hazards.
- How is the project funded?
Phase 1 and 2 are funded by federal highway funds, in addition to a $20 million appropriation from the State legislature.
- When did construction begin?
Construction on Phase 1, from approximately Eagle Rock Drive to Swires Road, began in late spring 2018 and was completed in mid-summer 2020.
Phase 2 will begin at Sports Lake Road and tie into Phase 1 at Eagle Rock Drive. Construction for Phase 2 is anticipated to begin in 2024 and continue until 2026.
- Will this project move the roadway from its existing location?
No, the highway will remain in the same location.
- What will happen to driveways next to the highway where it is being widened?
DOT&PF will reconstruct existing permitted driveways and accesses to tie into the new roadway. In some locations, DOT&PF may consolidate or relocate driveways to side streets to improve safety. DOT&PF will not be creating new driveways or approaches as part of this project. If you would like to apply for a driveway/approach road permit, please consult the permit application website at dot.alaska.gov/permits/.
- What will happen to mailboxes along the highway?
DOT&PF will relocate and/or replace any mailboxes affected by the project. This may include creating grouped mailbox locations. DOT&PF will work with the United States Postal Service to best accommodate mail service to affected residents during and after construction.
- Will you be clearing trees next to the roadway?
Trees will be cleared as part of this project. There are many reasons to clear trees along the roadway: to improve visibility along the roadway (especially in areas with curves), to provide ample space for DOT&PF road maintenance crews to clear snow, to reduce roadway shadows that can lead to icing, to create a clear zone or hazard-free area adjacent to the roadway for errant vehicles, and to improve moose visibility for drivers.
- Will there be more street lighting?
Continuous lighting will be added between Delta Avenue and Dolly Varden Street.
- Will the speed limit change as part of the project?
No. The posted speed limit is 55 mph, with a reduction to 45 mph approximately one-quarter mile from the end of the project, just past Mapes Street. This will not change.
- How are you addressing the pathway adjacent to the highway during construction?
The construction contract will require that the pathway stay open for use. Similar to the roadway, there will likely be some delays and minor inconvenience associated with temporary traffic control measures.
- Who can I contact to get more information?
Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
Alex Read, P.E., Project Manager
Email: alex.read@alaska.gov
Phone: 907-269-0641
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