Fairbanks

It’s been said that Alaska has two seasons: construction and winter. Well, with the first phase of the Illinois Street Reconstruction Project finished it looks like we are ready to make the leap into winter. The State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities is commemorating the occasion with a grand opening event at the new Veterans’ Memorial Bridge this Monday, November 12. 

At 1:00 pm, perfectly timed for the day after Veterans Day, Fairbanks leaders and other dignitaries will dedicate the new river crossing in style. Veterans from our community will ride in a parade of antique automobiles that includes some of the first cars to cross the Cushman Street Bridge. The procession will then make its way to the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center for a reception and a short program. Please come join us for the festivities. 

Given the scope and impact of the Illinois Reconstruction Project, we all have a lot to celebrate. The benefits of this new viaduct are many—simplified and improved traffic flow, streamlined bike paths, better sight distances, and upgraded utilities will contribute to a safer, pedestrian-friendly route into downtown Fairbanks. Plus, with north and southbound Illinois street traffic resuming, there will be less congestion on other access roads into downtown, like Wendell street and First Avenue. 

Just as the seasons change, so do our ways to move around our community. No matter which route you choose, drive, walk or bike carefully and responsibly!