§3200 Denali Scenic Highway Study

Summary

Public lands in a corridor one mile on each side of the centerlines of these roads in south central Alaska are taken out of mining claims and mineral leasing, subject to valid existing rights: the Parks Highway from the entrance to Denali National Park to the Talkeetna junction one hundred and thirty-six miles south of Cantwell, the Denali Highway between Cantwell and Paxson, the Richardson and Edgerton Highways between Paxson and Chitina, and the existing road between Chitina and McCarthy (as shown on Alaska Department of Transportation maps). Minor road realignment, small road improvements, and taking gravel for those road purposes are still allowed. Beginning December 2, 1980, and for three years, the Secretary must study whether to create a Denali Scenic Highway using all or part of those lands. A study team must include representatives of the Secretary of Transportation, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the State, and each Regional Corporation with land in the area. The team must consider scenic and recreational value, protection needs, connecting national parks in south central Alaska, and improving the motor-vehicle travel experience. Non‑Federal team members get per diem and travel at the rates provided for employees of the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Alaska in grade GS–15. The Secretary must work with the State, consult Village Corporations and nearby landowners, give public notice (including local newspapers), and hold hearings in convenient locations. Within three years after December 2, 1980, the Secretary must report to the President with recommendations and maps; the President then sends recommendations, the Governor of Alaska’s views, maps, cost estimates, administration suggestions, and any proposed legislation to Congress. The lands stay withdrawn until Congress acts, but not to exceed two years after the recommendation is sent to Congress.