Arizonans share feedback on state highway plan

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More than 700 Arizonans have provided feedback on the Arizona Department of Transportation’s tentative five-year plan for proposed improvements and projects since the public comment period began March 18.

The plan is part of an annual update on the state’s highway system.

The 2022-2026 Tentative Five-Year Program includes upgrading 581 lane miles of pavement from fair and poor condition to good condition, investing more than $1 billion in pavement preservation projects, and expanding and improving four corridors for passenger and freight traffic.

The plan also reaches the department’s goal of allocating $320 million annually to preserve bridges and roadways statewide. These projects include repairing or reconstructing bridges and repaving and repairing highways.

Also included in the plan is $407 million for projects that improve highway safety, efficiency, and functionality.

The comment period will close at 5 p.m. Mountain Time on Thursday. Those who have provided public comments will have the opportunity to participate in an upcoming virtual hearing.

In addition to making comments online, residents may comment at a public hearing, and a State Transportation Board study session on Thursday held virtually at 9 a.m.

The State Transportation Board will take action on the program at its June 18 meeting.