Spenard Road Reconstruction Project
Frequently Asked Questions.
Q. What’s the plan?
A. The project will build on the initial work of the 2000 HSIP. The project will consider among its alternatives the 4- to 3-lane conversion for the section from Minnesota Drive to Fireweed, a 1-way couplet using Spenard and 36th Avenue to relieve the Minnesota Drive/Spenard Road intersection congestion, and lane and pedestrian/bike improvements from Fireweed to the Minnesota on-ramp.
Q. Will the project need more right-of-way for the road?
A. We anticipate using the existing right-of-way for the road and pedestrian facilities. Additional right-of-way needed, if any, would be minor.
Q. Will my driveway be changed?
A. Some driveway access will need to be changed to conform to safety standards. The project team will discuss this individually in detail with affected property owners at the appropriate time in the design process.
Q. Will the project affect parking at my business?
A. The project will use the right of way for improving the roadway. If you are currently providing parking in the right of way, it is likely that your parking will be affected. We urge business and property owners to work together to provide safe parking for their customers outside the publicly owned right of way.
Q. Will there be improvements to bus stops?
A. Bus stops will be brought up to current standards and amenities, such as benches may be added. Some locations might shift to better serve bus riders or respond to roadway design changes.
Q. Will there be changes to the sidewalks?
A. The project will address the uneven quality of Spenard sidewalks. We know that good pedestrian facilities are an invitation to walk in a neighborhood, and that walkers are more likely to notice individual businesses on a street. Spenard’s sidewalks need to be brought up to current standards with curb cuts, removal of obstacles, etc. (Why? Conformance to ADA, bike access, etc.)
Q. Will overhead utilities be put underground?
A. There may be some areas where this may be a possibility. The project team is working with local utility companies to coordinate undergrounding some overhead utilities.
Q. When will these changes be constructed?
A. Construction is estimated to take place in 2008 or later. The actual date will depend on when funding is identified and prioritized by Anchorage Metropolitan Transportation Solutions (AMATS). See schedule page for further detail. Construction schedule will also depend on the schedule for Fireweed Lane. The Municipality will not build them both in the same season.
Q. What will be done to minimize impacts to my business?
A. We know that road construction is a trying time for businesses. The Municipality’s contracts with construction companies will require that contractors maintain access to businesses.
Q. How can I find out what’s going on?
A. Bookmark this web site and keep coming back to check. We will also be mailing out newsletters and announcements during the project. If you would like to make sure you are on the mailing list, please contact the Public Involvement Coordinator.
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