Ward Creek Bridge 747 Replacement

Project # SFHWY00160

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is proposing to replace Ward Creek Bridge (Bridge Number 747) and reconstruct roadway approaches along North Tongass Highway at Mile Post (MP) 11 in Ketchikan, Alaska. The project is located in Township (T) 74S, Range (R) 90E, Section (S) 34, United States Geological Survey Quadrangle Ketchikan B-6 NE Copper River Meridian.

The Ward Creek Bridge was constructed in 1975 and is approaching the end of its useful life. The project purpose is to replace the bridge since it has a poor condition rating and is structurally degrading. The north abutment is experiencing settlement issues causing cracks to form in the pile caps. The replacement of the Ward Creek Bridge No. 747 is needed to ensure the structural integrity and stability for the traveling public.

DOT&PF is proposing the following activities:

• Replace the existing Ward Creek Bridge
• Reconstruct associated approaches
• Add a turn lane on North Tongass Highway
• Repair embankment and riprap
• Install new approach guardrail
• Drainage repairs and replacements
• Relocate utilities
• Street lighting modifications

The project is anticipated to occur in late fall of 2026 through the end of the 2028 construction season. Temporary traffic disruptions and delays are anticipated during the construction of this project, and such delays would be addressed in a traffic control plan as the project progresses. Loud noise would be temporarily generated during the construction for blasting activities that will occur during daylight hours.

View the project vicinity maps here and preliminary plans here.

The project team is committed to inclusive public involvement throughout the project process. It is the policy of the DOT&PF that no person shall be excluded from participation in, or be denied benefits of any and all programs or activities the DOT&PF provides based on race, religion, gender, age, marital status, ability, or national origin, regardless of the funding source.

The DOT&PF complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

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The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by DOT&PF pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated April 13, 2023, and executed by FHWA and DOT&PF.