Assembly adopts Bogard Selden Corridor Access Management Plan to reduce congestion

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss the adoption of the Bogard-Selden Corridor Access Management Plan, a significant initiative aimed at improving traffic flow and safety along a crucial stretch of roadway. The plan, funded by federal grants, seeks to address increasing congestion and accident rates on the corridor, which has seen a surge in traffic following recent developments.

Planning Director Alex Strong presented the ordinance, emphasizing the need for better access management due to the corridor's mixed management by both the borough and the state. He noted that the road has not had proper access management, leading to numerous conflict points and safety concerns. The plan proposes to limit access points and recommends strategies such as blocking certain intersections and creating cul-de-sacs to enhance traffic safety.

Public feedback during the meeting highlighted mixed reactions. While some residents expressed support for the plan, citing safety concerns and the need for improvements, others voiced strong opposition to specific recommendations. For instance, residents from Woodfield Park and East Village Loop raised concerns about proposed changes that would redirect traffic through their neighborhoods, arguing that these alterations could compromise safety and property values.

Renee Blake, a resident of Woodfield Park, argued against the recommendation to push East Porcupine Trail onto East Serendipity Loop, stating it would jeopardize the safety of local families. Similarly, Anthony Rotelli, a homeowner in East Village Loop, criticized the plan for disproportionately redistributing traffic burdens onto residential streets not designed for heavy traffic.

Supporters of the plan, including representatives from the North Lakes Community Council, emphasized the need for immediate action to address safety issues, particularly in the notoriously congested segment from Bogard and Trunk Road to the Selden Roundabout. They urged the assembly to prioritize the implementation of the plan to ensure public safety for the community's 10,000 residents.

The assembly's discussions underscored the importance of balancing traffic management with community needs, as they navigate the complexities of improving infrastructure while addressing residents' concerns. The outcome of this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Bogard-Selden corridor and its impact on local neighborhoods.