JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON -- A recreational pedestrian and bicycle path will be rerouted temporarily beginning April 26 at the Chena River Lakes Flood Control Project in North Pole.
Currently, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Alaska District is preparing for the summer construction season with a focus on continuing work on the Moose Creek Dam Modification Project. A key component of this effort is to establish a concrete batch plant just north of Lake Park Road.
Due to the increased construction activity in this area, the bike path will be redirected from Lake Park Road to the South Access Road. The alternate route will ensure the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. Meanwhile, motorists are likely to encounter flaggers north of Lake Park Road.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we resume construction,” said Justin Kerwin, senior park ranger for the Chena Project. “Our priority is to make improvements to the dam, but we still want to support our recreational users.”
The purpose of the Moose Creek Dam modification project is to construct a mix-in-place concrete barrier wall at the dam that will span 4.5 miles at depths of up to 65 feet. The project stems from a 2017 study that recommended the establishment of a reinforced dam embankment to extend the life of the aging infrastructure. The project will provide the greater Fairbanks region with protection during high-water events for many years to come.
The dam will continue to operate and regulate the flow of the Chena River as needed while construction is underway. Referred to as a “mega project,” it is the largest USACE civil works construction effort in Alaska in more than 30 years. Construction is to be completed before January 2026.
For more information about the dam modification project or its potential impacts to recreation, contact the Chena River Lakes Flood Control Project office at 907-488-5400.
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Release no. 23-004