On March 20, 2025, a landslide blocked the North Tongass Highway. Since March 26th, residents have relied on a gravel bypass near Wolfe Point that’s damaging vehicles, delaying school buses, and causing workers to lose wages due to late arrivals.

The first cruise ship arrives April 17th, and large tour buses will soon begin using the bypass—causing even more damage, heavier traffic delays, and increased safety risks for all drivers.

We, the residents of the City of Ketchikan and the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, are calling on the following leaders to take immediate action to pave the gravel bypass road at Wolfe Point on the North Tongass Highway:

• City of Ketchikan Mayor and Councilmembers
• Ketchikan Gateway Borough Mayor and Assembly Members
• Alaska State Representative Jeremy Bynum
• Alaska State Senator Bert Stedman
• U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski
• U.S. Representative Nick Begich
• Governor of Alaska Mike Dunleavy
• Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ryan Anderson

We demand the following:

1. The Wolfe Point bypass must be paved with asphalt now.
2. Increased maintenance of the bypass until paving is completed.
3. Clear communication to the public about progress, road closures, and expected timelines.

Note: Everyone affected is encouraged to sign—regardless of age. We all matter. Every voice counts.