MEDIA ADVISORY

For more than 80 years, alumni at the University of Alaska Fairbanks have linked the school to its rich history, but a new entrance to the campus on College Hill will make alumni a permanent part of UAF's future. Alumni Drive, formerly known as East Tanana Loop, will open on Sept. 28 during a 4 p.m. ceremony. Joining UAF Chancellor Marshall Lind at the intersection of College Rd. and University Ave. during Tuesday's ceremony will be Alaska Department of Transportation Northern Region Director and UAF graduate Tony Johansen, and Terrence Cole, UAF alumnus and associate history professor, who will provide a quick snapshot on the historical significance UAF has and continues to play in Alaska.

Traditionally, the newly named road served as the main entrance to campus, but was closed at least two decades ago due to safety concerns and increased traffic in the area. Before reopening the intersection, the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities spent $4 million in state and federal monies to widen turn lanes, add larger stoplights and build sidewalks to provide safer access for drivers and pedestrians.

Naming the new road was a lot easier than constructing the new entrance, however. Most thoroughfares on campus are named after Alaskan rivers, but the UA Board of Regents unanimously approved the new name to recognize the contributions and support alumni have given their alma mater in the past, according to UAF Alumni Director Jake Poole. Alumni will continue that support next spring, when a new stone time-and-temperature sign purchased by UAFAA will be placed at the intersection.

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