RAILWAY TO THE ARCTIC RECONNAISSANCE AND RIGHT OF WAY CONSTRUCTION

The construction of 1,200 miles of double track railway from Trout River to Prudhoe Bay, with a branch line to Inuvik, presents a gigantic undertaking. The need for such a railroad to be operational within a period of time which is acceptable in relation to the potential development of the Prudhoe Bay oil fields and the movement of that oil to market, will require the highest order of leadership, determination, and cooperation. However, from analysis, such a railway built according to present day standards is feasible, and at least single track operation should be possible within five years after the decision to commence design and route reconnaissance. The report summarizes a suggested approach to the construction of the "railway to the Arctic", including location surveys, subgrade construction, bridging, track-laying, and ballasting.