Ahtna Construction & Primary Products Company, LLC (ACPPC) has successfully wrapped up all work for the 2024 construction season on the West Lakes Boulevard project in the Big Lake area of Alaska. The project, a significant infrastructure improvement for the Matanuska-Susitna Borough (MSB), involved reconstructing and repaving a 1.77-mile section of road. This project not only enhances safety and reduces maintenance costs for the future but also addresses long-standing concerns related to the aging infrastructure in this growing community.
The scope of the West Lakes Boulevard project was extensive, requiring the removal of approximately 26,500 square yards of existing pavement and the excavation of 14,500 cubic yards of earth. To improve the road foundation and provide a stable base for new asphalt, ACPPC placed 77,000 tons of embankment and 4,500 tons of aggregate base course. The work was carefully planned and executed within an intensive 60-day schedule, highlighting the importance of completing the project on time and to specification.
One of the critical components of the project was widening the existing road embankment. By excavating one to two feet of the existing roadbed and placing new fill material, ACPPC was able to lift and widen the road’s alignment, creating a more stable and durable roadway. This improvement is expected to enhance the driving experience for residents and visitors alike, providing a safer and more reliable transportation route for the community.
A key feature of the project was the installation of new culverts, including 400 linear feet of drainage culverts and two 49”x33” corrugated steel fish passage culverts. The replacement of these culverts is crucial for managing water flow and mitigating potential flooding in the area, ensuring that West Lakes Boulevard remains a reliable route during periods of heavy rain or snowmelt. In addition, these upgrades will help maintain the structural integrity of the road by improving drainage and preventing erosion.
ACPPC also took on the challenge of stream realignment, which involved grading 614 linear feet of ditches to enhance water flow and stabilize the surrounding terrain. The installation of new signage and striping along the newly repaved road further improved visibility and safety, making it easier for drivers to navigate the route.
The success of this project is a testament to the expertise and commitment of ACPPC’s team, led by Dave O’Donnell. Securing the contract with a bid that left only $7,000 on the table against five other competitors, the team demonstrated exceptional skill in managing costs while ensuring top-quality work.
The tight 90-day construction window required careful planning and coordination, and the team executed the project flawlessly, with local residents and the project owners expressing their satisfaction with the outcome.
While most of the work has been completed during the 2024 construction season, a few tasks remain for 2025. These include final seeding to restore the natural landscape along the road and closing out the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). These remaining tasks are scheduled for completion by June 30, 2025, after which the project will be fully finished and closed out.
Throughout the construction process, ACPPC worked closely with the MSB and other stakeholders, including utility companies, to ensure all work was completed to specification and within regulatory requirements. The team coordinated utility relocations, right-of-way clearing, and permitting to keep the project moving forward without delays. Regular field reviews and inspections were conducted, including a pre-final inspection with MSB representatives, confirming that the work met all project requirements.
Looking ahead to the 2025 construction season, ACPPC is well-prepared to complete the final stages of the project. With the bulk of the work already done, residents and visitors to the Big Lake area are already experiencing the benefits of the improved road conditions. The enhancements to West Lakes Boulevard will provide a smoother, safer driving experience and contribute to the long-term infrastructure development in the region.
This project highlights ACPPC’s ability to handle complex, large-scale construction projects while delivering high-quality results. Their expertise in road reconstruction, paving, and utility coordination has solidified their reputation as a trusted partner for infrastructure projects in Alaska. The successful completion of the West Lakes Boulevard project is another milestone in ACPPC’s long history of contributing to the improvement of transportation networks throughout the state.
As ACPPC looks forward to the final completion of the project in 2025, they remain committed to delivering excellent service and results to the MSB and other partners. This achievement serves as a shining example of the company’s dedication to excellence, safety, and quality in every project they undertake.