Travelers from the Kenai Peninsula heading to Anchorage or the Mat-Su Valley this summer should plan for delays on the Glenn Highway as major repair work begins on the Knik River Bridges.
Starting Wednesday, Apr. 23, the northbound Knik River Bridge between Anchorage and the Mat-Su will be closed for 30 days for essential preservation work. During that time, all traffic will be shifted to the southbound bridge, with a movable barrier system adjusting lanes to keep peak-direction traffic moving: two lanes into Anchorage in the morning, and two lanes back to the Valley in the afternoon.
This could create noticeable slowdowns for Peninsula residents traveling through Anchorage to reach the Mat-Su region. The Alaska Department of Transportation says drivers should expect reduced speed limits (down to 45 MPH), narrower lanes, congestion, and possible delays throughout construction. Anyone operating vehicles wider than 11 feet will need a permit to pass through the work zone.
Several key ramps in the area will also close for 30 days starting Apr. 23, including:
- The northbound on-ramp from the Old Glenn Highway,
- The northbound off-ramp to the Knik River Access Road, and
- The southbound on-ramp from the Knik River Access Road.
After the northbound bridge work is complete, crews will switch to the southbound side later this summer for another 30-day closure.
The Glenn Highway is a critical connection between Southcentral communities, and DOT&PF officials say this project will preserve vital infrastructure that supports commuters and freight. To minimize travel disruptions, travelers are encouraged to carpool, adjust travel times, or check for updates on 511.alaska.gov.