PoliticsFairbanks · April 13, 2026
wwii bridges getting replaced
The federal government has committed $108 million to replace two World War II-era Alaska bridges that have carried traffic for more than 80 years.
Daily Alaska staff · April 13, 2026 · Fairbanks
The federal government has awarded $108 million to replace the Johnson River and Gerstle River bridges, two Interior Alaska spans along the route connecting Tok and Fairbanks. Both bridges were built by the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II.
The bridges were designed for a 50-year service life. They have been in use for more than 80 years, and officials say both remain safe to cross even though they are well past their intended lifespan. Drivers, freight haulers and anyone relying on that stretch of highway between Tok and Fairbanks depend on these crossings staying open.
Construction on the Johnson River bridge is scheduled to begin in 2027. The Gerstle River bridge project follows in 2029.
The project is the first major bridge replacement funded under a new federal program aimed at bridges of this scale.
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Evidence
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Claims and where they come from
- The federal government awarded $108 million to replace the Johnson River and Gerstle River bridges · alaskasnewssource.com
- Both bridges were built by the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II · alaskasnewssource.com
- Construction on the Johnson River bridge begins in 2027 and the Gerstle River bridge project follows in 2029 · alaskasnewssource.com
- This is the first major bridge replacement funded under a new federal program targeting bridges of this scale · alaskasnewssource.com
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