Midtown Detours Are Back

Roger Hickel Contracting is resuming construction on the 42nd Avenue Upgrade in Anchorage, with Phase 1 work restarting in mid April on the stretch between Lake Otis Parkway and Piper Street. The project will keep this Midtown corridor looking like a work zone for most of the year.

The work includes new pavement, storm drain improvements, pedestrian upgrades, and replacement of the water main running under the road. Drivers who use 42nd Avenue to avoid Tudor Road or Northern Lights Boulevard will need to find a new route once work ramps up.

Access east of Wright Street will be limited through 2026, affecting commuters cutting through the Midtown area and businesses located along the corridor. Local businesses along 42nd Avenue should expect reduced access during portions of construction.

The project is designed as a long term infrastructure improvement for Anchorage. Once complete, the new pavement and improved drainage are expected to make the corridor smoother for drivers in the long run, even though the construction period will bring slowdowns and detours across Midtown through the rest of the year and into 2026.