Chena Riverfront Commission backs DOT airport-area wayfinding signs

The Chena Riverfront Commission voted unanimously Oct. 22 to express support for the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities’ Fairbanks Airport Area non-motorized wayfinding signage project, NFHWI00845.

DOT presenter described the project as “very simple” and said it would place about 16 signs along the new Airport Way West pathway between the airport and University West. “We’re gonna be putting in 16 or so wayfinding signs along the new path,” the DOT presenter said during the commission briefing. The signs are designed to match existing downtown and riverfront signage for visual continuity.

Commissioners discussed placement near the river and federal funding limits. DOT staff said 2–3 of the signs are close enough to be within 150 feet of the ordinary high-water mark and warned that federal funding rules restrict using signage to direct people to specific private businesses. “You can’t put directions to a specific site … but you can put ‘downtown this far’ or some kind of amenity,” the presenter said.

Julie Jones moved that the commission express support for the project (motion language cited the project by its DOT project number). The motion was seconded and carried by roll call, 5–0.

Why it matters: the wayfinding signs are intended to improve pedestrian and bicycle navigation to riverfront amenities and the downtown core. DOT said the design team is coordinating with FAST Planning and local partners on destinations, distances and compliance with federal funding rules.

What’s next: DOT will finish design details and provide specific destination lists and sign locations for further review; the commission’s action was an expression of support rather than a permit or binding approval.

Sources: presentation and vote at the Chena Riverfront Commission meeting Oct. 22, 2025.