Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) officials are touting the benefits of a $134 million project to improve mobility and safety along State Route 189.
The effort addressing a 3.75-mile stretch of Nogales highway eliminates the need for commercial trucks to stop as many as three times between I-19 and the international border.
The scope of work includes flyover ramps connecting with the interstate and once completed in about 18 months,
would aid in increasing international trade coming through Nogales by linking the Mariposa Port of Entry and Interstate 19.
“We know that better roads mean a better future for Arizona,” Gov. Doug Ducey said. “The improvements along State Route 189 will improve safety, enhance trade, and foster an even stronger relationship with our neighbors in Mexico. With record trade already with Mexico, my thanks to the Arizona Department of Transportation, our partners in Mexico, and everyone working to improve our infrastructure and attract even more trade through our ports.”
ADOT Director John Halikowski said moving large commercial trucks to the new flyover ramps would not only benefit the trucking industry but improve traffic flow and make Mariposa Road safer.
The project also includes a new roundabout at Target Range Road and improved drainage and traffic signals, among other improvements.
“During my first administration in 2011, we talked about ways to improve State Route 189, and now it’s real,” Nogales Mayor Arturo Garino said. “This is a very good project that is important for the city of Nogales and for the entire state of Arizona economically.”