Plans to upgrade a key stretch of the Sterling Highway between Anchor Point and Baycrest Hill are moving forward—but drivers will have to wait a bit longer to see construction begin.
According to the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF), the final design work for the Milepost 157–169 reconstruction project is now complete, which aims to improve safety, reduce congestion, and restore the structural integrity of the corridor. The project has been split into two construction phases, with the first phase—from Milepost 157 to 161—expected to begin in 2026 and continue through 2028. The second phase, from MP 161 to 169, is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2027, depending on available funding.
DOT&PF says the project is being funded through a mix of state and federal sources and is being developed in accordance with Federal Highway Administration guidelines. Dividing the project into two phases is intended to better align with the funding schedule and increase the chances of timely progress.
Once underway, the work will include full pavement rehabilitation, curve realignments, and shoulder widening to eight feet. Crews will construct new passing and climbing lanes to help alleviate traffic backups and improve overall flow. The project will also bring significant safety enhancements, including intersection improvements such as added turning lanes and better sight distances.
Infrastructure upgrades are also central to the plan. DOT&PF says crews will replace both the Anchor River and North Fork Anchor River bridges, install new culverts—including those designed to improve fish passage—and stabilize stream banks to reduce erosion. Drainage improvements, erosion control measures, updated signage, striping, and guardrail replacement will also be part of the broader project goals.
DOT says it has completed traffic and safety analysis, surveying, geotechnical work, environmental permits, and right-of-way acquisition. The remaining task—finalizing utility relocation agreements—is now underway.
According to Homer News, DOT&PF Project Manager Aaron Hunting confirmed last week that utility work is still being finalized, which is partly why construction won’t begin this year. DOT’s Justin Shelby added that while the project had originally been expected to go to bid in 2024, it has become “a late obligation,” and there likely won’t be “much or any construction” until next year.
Once construction begins, the highway overhaul is expected to significantly improve driving conditions along this busy stretch of road between Anchor Point and Homer, making it safer and more efficient for residents, commercial drivers, and tourists alike.
More information and project updates are available at www.sterlinghwymp157-169.com.