The Alaska Department of Transportation will close the Glenn Highway bridge at Peters Creek for 45 days starting next month for emergency structural repairs.

The closure will force all northbound traffic onto the southbound lanes, creating a single-lane configuration in each direction on one of Anchorage's busiest commuter routes. The highway carries more than 40,000 vehicles daily between Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.

Transportation officials said the bridge requires immediate attention after inspectors found deteriorating concrete and steel reinforcement that poses safety risks. The repairs cannot wait for the typical summer construction season.

"We understand this will create significant inconvenience for commuters, but the structural integrity issues require immediate action," said DOT spokesman Jeremy Woodrow. "Waiting until summer could result in a complete bridge failure."

The closure will begin May 15 and continue through June 30, affecting the Memorial Day weekend and early summer travel. Commuters traveling between Anchorage and Eagle River, Palmer, and Wasilla should expect delays of 30 to 45 minutes during peak hours.

DOT will install temporary traffic signals to manage the single-lane configuration. The department recommends commuters consider alternate routes including the Parks Highway through Wasilla or adjust work schedules to avoid rush hour traffic.

The 40-year-old bridge spans Peters Creek about 15 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage. Regular inspections revealed accelerated deterioration from freeze-thaw cycles and heavy traffic loads.

Repairs will include replacing damaged concrete, reinforcing steel supports, and waterproofing the deck. The project costs an estimated $2.8 million from the state's emergency maintenance fund.

Local businesses along the Glenn Highway corridor worry about reduced customer traffic during the closure. Eagle River Chamber of Commerce president Sarah Mitchell said members are preparing for potential revenue losses during the peak spring shopping season.

DOT plans daily updates on traffic conditions through its 511 Alaska system and social media channels. The department will also coordinate with Alaska State Troopers to manage traffic flow during the heaviest congestion periods.

Drivers can sign up for construction alerts at 511.alaska.gov or follow @AlaskaDOTPF on Twitter for real-time updates.