KCI is providing independent cost estimating (ICE) services for the Sterling Highway MP 45-60 project, the largest highway development in Alaska’s history.
The project spans approximately 15 miles, including 10 miles of new alignment through mountainous terrain requiring extensive rock excavation using controlled drilling and blasting. A signature feature of the project is a 928-foot-long steel plate girder bridge crossing the 200-foot-deep Juneau Creek canyon. With a 440-foot main span, it is the longest single bridge span in Alaska.
Our team played a central role in supporting cost and constructability planning for the project, particularly for the bridge. A variety of bridge types were analyzed early in the project including underdeck arch and cable stayed. The final structure incorporates 6.75 million pounds of fabricated structural steel and is incrementally launched across the canyon using specialized equipment and temporary supports. The bridge foundations include large-diameter drilled shafts. KCI developed detailed, production-based cost estimates for multiple civil and bridge work packages. These estimates were supported by independent constructability drawings to clearly define construction approaches and assumptions.
In addition, KCI prepared independent construction schedules for each work package, evaluated indirect costs such as staffing, mobilization, and risk, and actively participated in Cost and Schedule Risk Assessment (CSRA) reviews. Through this comprehensive effort, KCI is delivering trusted independent cost, schedule, and risk insight for one of the most complex transportation projects ever undertaken in Alaska.
