2001 Mat-Su Borouigh Construction Roundup.

• Author: GARLEY, SANDRA
• Position: Construction and population information and statistics - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

Schools and recreational construction projects premier in the fastest-growing area of the states

Much has been said in the media recently about the rapid rate of growth experienced over the past 10 years by the Matanuska Susitna Borough. The borough is the fastest-growing area in the state, with a population that jumped from 39,683 in 1990 to a final count of 59,322 in the 2000 census, a 49 percent increase.

Less attention has been given to the growth issues the borough must deal with as a result of this increase in population. Borough assembly members recognize that this growth is not a shortterm event. Population projections by the State Department of Labor indicate that by the year 2018, the Mat-Su can expect to see another 42,000 residents.

One way the borough has selected to support existing communities and to preserve the social and physical environments that attract people to the Mat-Su area is to promote community identity by developing public places. Public facilities can be sited to create a focus for the community and, where possible, to provide a convenient destination where residents can accomplish multiple tasks. Several such projects are scheduled for construction this year.

Civic Improvements

The new Big Lake Library is a $1.4 million project that went to bid in early June. E. & E. Construction out of Palmer will construct the facility. Plans call for a 6,500-square-foot, wood-frame structure; utilities; parking; and landscaping. The new library will be located at 3212 S. Big Lake Road.

Wolverine Construction is working on the Upper Susitna Senior Center at the intersection of the Parks Highway and Helena Road near Talkeetna. This $898,000 project will provide 5,500 square feet of usable space for senior programs in the upper Susitna Valley. The new center is scheduled for completion in February 2002.

Parks & Recreation

The borough's Alcantra Athletic Complex is located on Seldon Road between the borough's newest elementary and middle schools. Construction is scheduled for completion in June 2002. This $985,000 project will include the construction of four regulation-size soccer fields, four Little League baseball fields, four tennis courts, two basketball courts, dugouts and storage for the ball fields, and 1.5 acres of parking in two parking lots with a total capacity of 150 vehicles. The area will later be expanded to have playgrounds and picnic areas. Overall the complex, which will eventually include a high school and...