Proposed Routes
Proposed routes for the project
The project would start near North Pole at the Chena River overflow structure (MP 20.18) on the Eielson branch rail line and would terminate in the vicinity of Delta Junction. The project might also include an 19-mile long rail spur to the Blair Lakes Impact Area, providing direct access to the Tanana Flats Training Area (TFTA) and Air Force training facilities at this location.
The general area between North Pole and Delta Junction lies within the Tanana River Valley, an area bounded by rugged terrain immediately to the north and east side of the river and by a broad plain ending at the Alaska Range to the south and west of the Tanana River. The terrain on the north and east side of the river creates a natural constraint to rail constructions; the Richardson Highway is located on this side of the river.
The possible rail alignments and crossing locations will be evaluated on the basis of numerous factors including potential environmental impacts, engineering feasibility, and right-of-way concerns.
View the proposed routes. Select the following link to view a map of the proposed routes:
STB Routes under consideration, May 2008
ARRC's proposed action, May 2008
