The New Seward Highway is the main north-south corridor and is a critical link in Anchorage's transportation system. As the only roadway out of Anchorage to the south this portion of the National Highway System also becomes congested with tourist and recreational traffic during the summer months. The central and southern portions of the Anchorage Bowl have experienced significant growth in recent years, a trend that is expected to continue to increase traffic volumes along the corridor.

This 4-lane controlled access freeway has an average daily traffic count ranging from 20,000 - 60,000 vehicles.

During AM peak travel times traffic volumes increase and the pace slows, often spilling over to the frontage roads as travelers make their way to and from midtown and downtown Anchorage employment centers. The Dowling Road exit ramp often backs up onto the freeway during the evening peak hours, creating unsafe conditions to the through traveler. The constant stop-and-start traffic flow that is common during the morning peak period of congestion is a situation that may contribute to the likelihood of traffic accidents.

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