Cedar Drive

The Cedar Drive Reconstruction Project, completed last summer, has significantly improved one of Juneau, Alaska’s most problematic roads. This project aimed to address Cedar Drive’s deteriorating condition and enhance the local community’s overall infrastructure.

Notorious for its bumps and potholes, Cedar Drive was one of Juneau’s most challenging residential roads. The aging sewer, storm, and water lines further compounded the issues, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul. The project sought to replace these outdated systems and reconstruct the road, providing residents with a safer and more reliable infrastructure.

The project was not without its hurdles. During excavation, contaminated soils were discovered, requiring the involvement of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and an external environmental contractor. This added an unexpected layer of complexity and cost.

Despite these challenges, RESPEC’s project team successfully executed several key activities. They provided design and inspection services to ensure quality and compliance. New sewer, storm, and water lines, along with utility holes, were installed. The entire length of Cedar Drive, approximately 600 feet, was reconstructed. A temporary access road was built through a forested area, and an aging pump house was demolished. A new oil-water separator was also installed to manage water flow into Duck Creek.

The Cedar Drive Project has brought numerous benefits to the community. The replacement of aging systems and the new road surface have significantly improved the quality of life for residents. The new road surface has eliminated the previous issues of bumps and potholes, providing a smoother and safer driving experience. The installation of the oil-water separator and the cleanup of contaminated soils have contributed to better environmental management. Most residents have expressed satisfaction with the improvements, appreciating the efforts to maintain and enhance public infrastructure.

Scott Allan, who has been involved with RESPEC since 2020, shared his positive experiences working on the project and in Juneau.

“Working in Juneau is unique and rewarding. You get to service not just the city but also smaller Southeast communities. The feedback from residents, especially in small towns, is incredibly gratifying,” he said.

Allan also highlighted the professional and responsive relationship with the City and Borough of Juneau, emphasizing the collaborative effort that made the project a success.

The Cedar Drive Project is a testament to RESPEC’s commitment to improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for residents. With the road now complete, the community can enjoy a safer, smoother, and more reliable Cedar Drive for years to come.