The University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Alaska Satellite Facility will break ground Aug. 1 on a project to install a new antenna dish on UAF’s West Ridge. The project, when complete, will also result in improvements to the nearby cross-country ski facilities.

UAF will host a groundbreaking ceremony at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 1. This fall, crews will be clearing trees, digging foundations and pouring concrete for the new 11-meter dish, which will be installed about 100 yards east of the existing dish. The project will slow down during the winter months and then restart in the spring with the delivery of the dish to the site in April 2013. When complete, the new dish will support Space Communications Network Services at NASA. In addition, the project will create a new, flat arena area for beginning skiers and race starts that will be accessible to spectators on foot.

During the construction this fall, members of the public should park in designated parking areas and be aware of construction equipment and signs in the area. The project is not expected to affect winter recreation in the area.

The total project cost is $6 to $7 million and is funded by NASA.

PHOTO CAPTION/CREDIT: Pictured left to right during aground-breaking ceremony on Aug. 1, 2012 are David Carter, NASA NEN project manager, Scott Arko, ASF deputy director, Ken Griffin, ITT Corporation, division manager of ground network services, Robert Chang, Exelis vice president of technical programs, Nettie La Belle-Hamer, ASF director, and UAF Chancellor Brian Rogers. GI photo.