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Denali Borough wins $4M in separated-pathways grants; Antler Ridge trail bids opened
Summary
Staff told the CORK committee the borough secured roughly $2.2 million from a Federal Lands Access Program grant and $1.8 million for rural design work; Antler Ridge bids open April 29 and project completion is scheduled for Aug. 31, 2027, subject to federal budgets and migratory-bird timing.
Denali Borough staff reported two federal grant wins that together total about $4 million for separated-pathway projects: $2.2 million targeted to construction (Federal Lands Access Program) and $1.8 million for design under a rural and tribal pilot assistance program. The grants are intended to fund six miles of separated pathway and related design and environmental work in valley corridors.
Staff said the Antler Ridge trail construction package is out for bid and bids were to be opened April 29. The borough moved the trail’s final completion date to Aug. 31, 2027, citing a short construction season and migratory-bird restrictions that limit work windows in sensitive areas. Staff noted grant award and project work remain contingent on federal budgets and executed grant agreements.
Committee members discussed staging, potential need for additional funds for pedestrian bridges at two crossings, and coordination with contractors and borrow pits for materials. Staff flagged the McKinley Village gravel pit conversation — a separate but related community discussion about access to local material resources — and said community groups and the assembly had previously explored transfer and shared-use options.
Next steps: staff will return after the bid opening with contractor selections and will move to advertise construction once agreements, timing and permits align. The committee asked staff to continue outreach about staging, neighborhood impacts and opportunities to coordinate volunteer or community events when construction allows.
