Tag: Kenai Peninsula

  • A Road Less Deadly

    An ambitious effort to reroute traffic around Alaska's Kenai Peninsula is underway to reduce moose-vehicle collisions and protect wildlife, including the implementation of wildlife crossings to guide animals safely across the road. The Sterling Highway near Cooper Landing is being redesigned with wider shoulders, passing lanes, and updated guardrails to enhance driver safety, while also alleviating congestion and improving the driver experience. The project plan includes innovative wildlife crossings, such as Alaska's first vegetated wildlife overpass, to promote safe passage for animals and prevent genetic isolation among animal populations. The construction, led by the DOT&PF and Federal Highway Administration, is now expected to cost over $955 million and involve the Kenaitze Indian Tribe in setting excavation standards and ensuring cultural observers are present during construction, with completion scheduled for 2031 and a five-year post-construction study to monitor wildlife use, crash reduction, and vegetation recovery.

    https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/road-less-deadly