Nistler Road pothole captures council’s concern

Drivers traveling the School Road portion of Nistler Road are well acquainted with its landmines – potholes, cracks, and deteriorating pavement that seem to worsen with each passing day. But one particularly large pothole has become a concern even for Delta Junction City Council members.

“That pothole is right in the middle of the school zone,” Council Member Rena Case said. “It is extremely dangerous. Drivers are not looking for kids or buses but are intent on avoiding it.”

The crater is large enough to potentially damage a tire or knock a vehicle’s front end out of alignment. Numerous complaints have surfaced, prompting questions about who is responsible for maintaining that section of Nistler Road. 

While some residents have suggested the State of Alaska is responsible for the repairs, City Administrator Lori Roberts told the council that the section is technically the city’s responsibility.

“Unfortunately, we don’t have the means or equipment to go beyond a cold patch,” Roberts explained. “And they are temporary, especially with all this rain.”

Mayor Igor Zaremba said they have been talking with the local Alaska Department of Transportation, but the City will send someone to fill the pothole.

The discussion of road conditions also provided Roberts an opportunity to update the council on the city’s participation in the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program.

A federal bipartisan infrastructure law established the SS4A program with $5 billion appropriated funds over a five-year period starting in 2022 through 2026. The program has financed multiple studies and projects throughout the state.

The Alaska Municipal League coordinated a joint application for the Interior Alaska Comprehensive Safety Planning Bundle. The project includes the lead applicant, Copper Valley Development Association, along with the Denali Borough and the City of Delta Junction.

The $350,475 project requires an in-kind match of $23,365 from the city. Roberts explained that the match does not necessarily have to be cash but could be donated time, community engagement, or services.

“They will look at our roads, signage, accident prone areas, lighting, and assess our needs,” Roberts said. “The City Council is initially meeting with them in November.”

The comprehensive safety planning effort is expected to be completed by December 2027.

“Having an itemized list opens us up to grants for which we can apply,” explains Roberts. 

And no doubt many local residents are hoping Nistler Road tops the list.                                   

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