Topic
Traffic Management
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Traffic Management Program is designed to enhance roadway safety, efficiency, and livability across our communities. Through a comprehensive approach that includes Traffic Calming strategies, the program aims to reduce vehicle speeds and improve conditions for all road users in residential and high-use areas. The collection and analysis of Traffic Data plays a critical role in identifying problem areas, guiding infrastructure improvements, and evaluating the effectiveness of implemented measures. Additionally, the Traffic Sign Policy ensures consistent, clear, and legally compliant signage throughout the Borough, supporting safe navigation and reinforcing traffic regulations. Together, these components form a cohesive framework for managing transportation challenges and promoting a safer, more connected Borough.
Traffic Data
Traffic data consists of timestamped geolocation data that indicates the speeds and directions at which vehicles are moving on a particular roadway or area. Traffic data has uses in traffic management applications for smart cities, mapping, navigation and route planning, and location intelligence.
Traffic data collection is a worldwide activity used to determine current traffic patterns and help predict future traffic trends. Our goal is to be a trusted source of data, information and maps for transportation decision-makers.
Traffic data is now published to an interactive ArcGIS map which can be found at the link below.
NOTE: Data not adjusted for seasonal variances.
Traffic Calming
Traffic Calming Study Request Traffic Calming Study Request
Traffic Sign Installation Policies
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Traffic Sign Installation Policies establish clear guidelines for the placement, maintenance, and management of traffic signs across the Borough’s transportation network. These policies ensure that all signage—whether regulatory, warning, or informational—is consistent with state and federal standards, supports safe and efficient travel, and meets the needs of both motorized and non-motorized users. By providing a structured approach to evaluating sign requests, prioritizing installations, and maintaining visibility and functionality, the Borough promotes roadway safety, enhances driver awareness, and supports community connectivity throughout urban, rural, and recreational areas.
Sign Criteria
| Sign | Maintained by Borough | Maintained by Others | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Name | Yes | No | Only 1 sign per street. No cross signs unless a major intersection |
| Street Name | No | Subdivider | On newly constructed subdivision roads |
| Stop Yield No Outlet | Yes | No | As needed |
| Stop Yield No Outlet | No | Subdivider | On newly constructed subdivision roads |
| School Bus Stop Ahead | Yes | No | As requested by School District Transportation |
| Speed | Yes | No | On major roads maintained by Borough |
| Speed | No | Individuals or Homeowner Associations | On approval by Engineering Division Manager. Borough to provide posts and install. Speed limits desired other than state or borough standards require approval by the Public Works Director |
| Handicap Blind Children at Play | No | Individuals or Homeowner Associations | Installed on private property. Need Borough Encroachment Permit if in Borough right-of-way |
| Curve Steep Grade Caution | Yes | No | On major roads maintained by Borough |
| Curve Steep Grade Caution | No | Subdivider | On newly constructed subdivision roads if required |
| Large Signs | No | Individuals or Homeowner Associations | Need Borough Encroachment Permit if in Borough right-of-way |
Standards
The Borough follows Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT/PF) standards. Those standards are the MUTCD (Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices) with the Alaska Supplement.
Placement
Standard placement of signs is to be 12' from the shoulder of the road with bottom of sign 5 to 7 feet above the shoulder level of the road. When going from a minor to a major road, sign should be placed on the right side. Individuals should contact us (907-861-7755) for locating placement of signs other than at this standard placement.
Sign Replacement
A large portion of the sign maintenance budget is drained by replacement of signs that have been vandalized or stolen. Vandals and/or the thieves will be prosecuted if caught. We request that members of the public help us minimize waste of taxpayer funds by reporting any observed vandalism or theft. To report down or missing signs in your area call (907) 861-7755 to speak with the Road Services Division.