BTEP

Alaska Program - 2008 Update

The Alaska BTEP program has been a popular and cost effective technology transfer program between the Government of Yukon Highway & Public Works in Canada, and the State of Alaska DOT & PF.

Funds are used primarily to pay travel for subject matter experts from respective locations. Since we share the Alaska Highway, and the Yukon receives Federal Aid funds for that stretch of highway, the benefits of technology transfer activities become obvious to the Lower 48, Alaska, and Canada.

Success stories over the past few years:

• Traffic control practices and highway safety features: Northern Region Traffic Control Coordinator, Statewide Traffic Engineer, and Regional FHWA Safety/ITS Engineer, traveled to Whitehorse to delivery training on traffic control practices and highway safety features. The trainings resulted in an excellent exchange of information. The Yukon Government even asked FHWA to return to conduct inspections to insure they correctly implemented recommendations.
• High float emulsion techniques: Alaska DOT personnel traveled to the Yukon to observe their method of application which has been successful in northern climates in permafrost laden soils. Those techniques where then successfully applied in parts of Alaska's Northern Region. Many of these practices are still used today and have resulted in cost savings and a higher level of service.
• Grader Operator Training: Alaska's LTAP program partners with Utah LTAP to bring an excellent grader program to Alaska. Last year one of the sessions was offered in Whitehorse through BTEP. The Yukon Government personnel reported this was the best week long heavy equipment program they've ever seen.
• To continue this excellent program we need a minimum of $15,000 a year to maintain the level of exchange we currently enjoy. Without the very unique BTEP funds, the exchange would dramatically decrease. Attached is the workplan through September of 2008 which we've been working from.