The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) joined the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in signing the Gravina Access Project Record of Decision and Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement.

This milestone clears the way for DOT&PF to begin final design and start construction associated with the Gravina Access Project.

The purpose of the Gravina Access Project is to improve transportation between Ketchikan and Saxman on Revillagigedo Island and the Ketchikan International Airport and developable land on Gravina Island.

The selected alternative, G4v, includes:

• the reconstruction of existing airport ferry berths;

• improvements to pedestrian facilities at the airport ferry terminals;

• a new heavy freight mooring facility and new ferry layup dock on Gravina Island;

• shuttle vans for transportation to and from the airport;

• upland improvements to Gravina pedestrian access; and

• replacement of the Airport Creek bridge and reconstruction of portions of Seley Road.

DOT&PF is working closely with the Ketchikan Gateway Borough on design details of the various projects. Once those agreements are completed, DOT&PF can begin final design with a goal of starting construction before 2019 and completing by 2021.

Last fall, Gov. Walker committed to investing in Ketchikan the $96.8 million originally allocated to the project. Estimated cost for the Gravina Access Project is $45 million. Additional potential linked developments on Gravina and Revillagigedo Islands would use the remainder of the original project funds. Federal money previously set aside for improving Ketchikan's connection to the airport will be used to finance design, construction and related activities.

For more information, visit dot.alaska.gov.