DOT Releases Western Susitna Transportation Analysis Report

On Thursday afternoon, the Department of Transportation released its Western Susitna Transportation Analysis Report.  According to DOT, the report identifies resource development and use opportunities, potential crossings of the Susitna River, and potential transportation corridors to access resources.

The studied area is mostly west of the Parks Highway, and is bordered by Denali National Park, the Alaska Range, and Cook Inlet.  The study sought to inventory natural resources in the area as well as find ways to extend the road system to reach those resources.   There are five proposed routes, all with varying lengths, number of bridges, and costs.  They range between $4 million dollars per mile to $6.3 million dollars per mile.  The report also ranks each destination area by the amount of resources found there.  Public comment on the report is open until February 28th.  A link to the report can be found here.