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Mayor LaFrance highlights Seward Highway safety work and $260 million for downtown reconstruction
Summary
Mayor Mary LaFrance told the Assembly she supports safety improvements to the Seward Highway while reserving the right to press for design changes, and announced a $260 million federal investment for 5th and 6th Avenue reconstruction in Anchorage.
At the Aug. 4 Assembly meeting Mayor Mary LaFrance outlined community events and public‑safety priorities before turning to transportation. She said she voted to re‑include the Safer Seward Highway project in the AMATS long‑range funding plan (MTP) but made clear her support was conditional on design changes reflecting community feedback.
"There is no doubt in my mind that safety improvements are urgently needed on that road, but my vote is not an endorsement of the current design," the mayor said, noting the project can be removed from the MTP and that the state must incorporate meaningful community input. LaFrance also announced the administration has been working with DOT to direct $260,000,000 in additional federal funds to fully reconstruct 5th and 6th Avenues downtown — a project she said will transfer those streets to municipal ownership and revitalize the core. Members thanked the mayor and discussed next steps for engaging DOT on design adjustments and community outreach.
