Hoping For The Best, DOT Announces 2025 Construction Season Projects

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  February 3, 2025

CONTACT: Shannon McCarthy, (907) 744-7360, Shannon.McCarthy@Alaska.gov

DOT&PF Announces 2025 Construction Season Projects Amid Challenges

(ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is releasing its planned highway and aviation construction projects for the 2025 season. Early projections indicate the 2025 construction season will see an estimated $900 million in construction awards, an increase from previous years. Preliminary maps illustrating the planned 2025 projects are available here: here.

DOT&PF has built multiple tools for the public to track construction projects across the state.  The 2025 construction maps and Tentative Advertising Schedule (TAS) are essential tools for both public and private sector planning. In addition, online interactive maps for the entire 2024-2027 construction programs are available through our Capital Project Dashboard. 

While DOT&PF anticipates a strong season, it continues to address project delivery challenges such as rising project costs, Federal Buy America/Build America (BABA) supply chain shortages, Federal funding release timeframes, and right of way acquisition hurdles. Utility companies have had a difficult time securing BABA complaint materials, which has slowed the progress of several key projects, including the Kenai Spur Highway Rehabilitation, Sterling Highway Safety Corridor MP 82.5-94, and Sterling Highway MP 157-169 Anchor Point to Baycrest Hill.

To address project delivery challenges, DOT&PF is taking proactive steps to improve efficiency and minimize delays. This includes breaking large projects into smaller phases to increase contractor participation, leveraging financial tools to accelerate funding, and working closely with utilities and federal agencies to resolve supply chain and regulatory hurdles. The department is also increasing project delivery resources, enhancing coordination with industry partners, and prioritizing critical infrastructure projects such as highway paving and preventative maintenance to ensure steady progress despite economic and permitting challenges.

In addition, DOT&PF has increasingly utilized the Construction Manager/General Contractor  (CM/GC) approach for high-risk or high-value projects, enabling contractors to participate during the design phase and seamlessly transition to construction following successful cost negotiations. This collaborative model has proven effective in reducing risks and ensuring high-quality project delivery. Several major CM/GC projects scheduled for construction in 2025 include the Cooper Landing Bypass, the Richardson Highway MP 346 Flood Control Bridge Replacements, the Parks Highway MP 319–325 Reconstruction, the Kotzebue to Cape Blossom Road, and the Wolf Point Slope Stability Improvements in Ketchikan. 

Looking ahead, DOT&PF remains committed to delivering a robust and efficient construction program that strengthens Alaska’s transportation network and supports economic growth. By leveraging innovative project management strategies, fostering collaboration with industry partners, and utilizing modern tracking tools, the department is ensuring transparency and efficiency in project execution. As we navigate challenges and implement solutions, DOT&PF will continue to prioritize the safety, reliability, and long-term sustainability of Alaska’s highways and aviation infrastructure.