Definition of “Public Works”: “Public works” are the on-site field surveying, erection, rehabilitation, alteration, extension or repair, including painting or redecorating, of buildings, highways or other improvements to real property. These public works projects must be completed under contract for the State of Alaska, a political subdivision of the State of Alaska, or a regional school board.
Categories of Construction Covered: Building; Highway; Residential; Heavy
Source of Funds: Typical contracts may be for new buildings, repair of existing buildings, painting contracts, term contracts, road service agreements, docks, equipment rental contracts, long-term leases, sidewalks, charter schools, remodeling projects, road upgrades, utility relocates that are integral to a project, or insurance proceeds used for repair or reconstruction.
Alaska prevailing wage laws apply only to public works or public construction contracts awarded by the State of Alaska or a political subdivision thereof, that exceeds $25,000.
State or Federal Wage Determination: The current state prevailing wage rates may be found in Pamphlet 600. The initial prevailing rate of pay shall remain in effect for the life of the contract or for 24 calendar months, whichever is shorter. At the end of the initial 24-month period, if new wage determinations have been issued by the department, the latest wage determination shall become effective for the next 24-month period or until the contract is completed, whichever occurs first.
Disclaimer: This information was published on August 1, 2021. Please contact Josh Levy, Eric Meier, Samantha Schacht or Michael Schrier for modifications made by Alaska since that date. Visit our 50-State Construction Law Map for information on other states.