Take Action!
In early July of 2024, DOT announced that it would begin scoping for an Environmental Assessment for their portion of the West Susitna Access Corridor. Scoping began on July 23rd 2024 and will continue through August 23rd 2024. This 23-mile proposed segment is just the first portion of a much larger, expensive, private mining industrial road that threatens to change the face of the entire Susitna Watershed.

Take action by signing this letter below

Subject: Request for Extended Comment Period and Comprehensive Environmental Review

To the West Susitna Access DOT Project Team,

I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the West Susitna Access Project. As an Alaskan, this project deeply affects me and my community.

1. Extension of Comment Period
The current 30-day comment period is insufficient for thorough public engagement, especially during the busy summer months, and with the project website changing repeatedly. I request that the comment period be extended to 90 days to ensure all stakeholders have a chance to provide meaningful input and so DOT can finalize their project information.

2. Request for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
This project poses substantial risks to the Susitna drainage, which includes sensitive wetland habitats, two state-designated recreation rivers, and crucial wildlife areas. I have personally observed the thriving wildlife in this area and am concerned about the potential negative impacts. An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is necessary to fully evaluate these potential effects.

3. Inclusion of the AIDEA Portion
The DOT project is just one segment of a larger, 100-mile industrial corridor that includes the AIDEA portion. For a complete understanding of the project's environmental and social impacts, the EIS should cover both segments.

4. Consideration of a No Action Alternative
The proposed project has faced significant opposition from the public, and its projected costs are substantial. Considering the feedback from our community, which includes local businesses and families relying on outdoor activities, a No Action alternative should be seriously evaluated.

In Summary:
-Extend the comment period to 90 days.
-Conduct a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
-Include both DOT and AIDEA portions in the EIS.
-Opt for the No Action alternative.

Thank you for considering these requests. It is essential that the review process be thorough and inclusive, reflecting the concerns and interests of all Alaskans.

Sincerely,

Fill out your information below, and feel free to include additional comments.
- Suggestions for additional comments are below the form letter.
- For more detailed talking points, please see our talking points information sheet here.

Suggestions for Impactful Personal Comments:

Personal Connection to the Area:
“I have lived in [your town] for [number] years, and my family frequently uses the Susitna River for recreation and fishing. This project threatens not only our enjoyment but also the health of this critical ecosystem that we rely on for our livelihoods.”

Environmental Observations:
“As someone who regularly hikes and camps in the Susitna area, I’ve seen firsthand the diverse wildlife that inhabits these lands. The proposed road could disrupt these habitats and endanger species that are already vulnerable.”

Community Impact:
“In our community, we are deeply concerned about the potential loss of natural beauty and recreational areas. Many local businesses, including mine, rely on tourism and outdoor activities that could be diminished by this project.”

Personal Experiences:
“I was born and raised in Alaska and have always valued the pristine landscapes that make this state unique. The prospect of such extensive industrial development changes not just the landscape but also the character of our home.”

Future Generations:
“I worry about the legacy we are leaving for our children. By allowing this project to proceed without a thorough environmental review, we risk damaging the natural resources they will need for their future.”

Cultural Significance:

“The Susitna River holds cultural significance for many indigenous people in our region. This project threatens not only the environment but also our cultural heritage and traditional practices.”

Economic Concerns:
“The estimated costs of this project are concerning. As someone who works in local infrastructure, I believe the funds could be better spent on projects that directly benefit our community and improve our existing roads and services.”