We just traveled the Alaska Highway from Anchorage to Abbotsford, British Columbia, more than 2,300 miles. I want to say, “Shame on Alaska!” The road from Glennallen to Tok and on to Haines Junction is atrocious: potholes without end, road heaves such that a speed over 10 mph is impossible, no shoulders, pavement gone and dangerous ruts. A third-world standard or worse. As governor, Mike Dunleavy is responsible.
I do not care whether the highway is designated federal or state, because the state definitely directs, lobbies and emphasizes where the federal funds are most needed. Shame on Gov. Dunleavy.
Yukon and British Columbia roads were magnificent by comparison. They were well maintained, smooth surfaced, no potholes, equipped with warnings for small to moderate frost heaves (and there were not many), not rutted, had reasonable shoulders and deal with the same weather and geography conditions.If tourism is important to Alaska, then Alaska has failed miserably to show the respect and concern a good road makes. Instead of a welcome, the traveler experiences disdain, disregard and disgust. The Alaska Highway is an important travel and trade conduit and Canada recognizes this, whereas Alaska’s political leader seems blind. Gov. Dunleavy should attend to Alaska’s highways and quit the graft of paying people via a Permanent Fund dividend to get their votes.
— Lori Atrops
Eagle River
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