Project Number: Z566310000/0A31034

Safety Express: MP 113

Highway Safety Improvement Program: Seward Highway Rockfall Mitigation, MP 113.2 (Project Number CFHWY01239)

The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP): Seward Highway Rockfall Mitigation, Milepost (MP) 113.2 project is a critical safety initiative to address persistent existing rockfall hazards. The project will stabilize the rockface and address the drainage conditions that are resulting in large ice buildup during the winter. DOT&PF proposes to mitigate future rockfall and icefall events from impacting and/or closing the Seward Highway at MP 113.2. Work for the proposed project may include:

• Remove or break up rock from the slope to create a wider ditch to catch falling rock.
• Add drainage above the slope to move water away and reduce rock and ice falling in winter.
• Fix road damage from the work and add signs, pavement markings, and safety barriers if needed.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q1: How does this fit into the overall Safer Seward Highway project?

A1: This project, along with other Safety Express projects, contribute to the overall goals of the Safer Seward Highway project. While the Safer Seward Highway project environmental process is still ongoing, this project meets federal criteria for independent utility and can proceed ahead under its own environmental review. The project was originally identified in 2019, and through the HSIP, this critical safety improvement can be addressed ahead of the larger safety improvements.

Q2: Will there be rock blasting?

A2: Yes. The project team will need to expand the rock catchment (space next to the road that helps keep the rockfall from spilling onto the road) and create a more stable slope. Creating a more stable slope will help prevent rocks from falling and improve drainage so that ice buildup creates less of a hazard of falling onto the highway in the winter. We don’t anticipate the need to use netting.

Q3: Will this effort impact recreational opportunities in the area?

A3: No. A portion of the Turnagain Arm Trail does run along the project area, but it is far enough away that we anticipate no impacts to the trail or the trail use experience. The project area is also next to a known rock-climbing area, Grunge Wall. The project is anticipated to overlap the southern tip of Grunge Wall but should not impact the overall usability of the site or the user experience.

Detour caused by icefall on the road at Seward Highway MP 113.2