March 23, 2009

Construction crews have nearly completed work on the new, wider bridge over the Hassayampa River on US 60 in Wickenburg as part of the Wickenburg Interim Bypass Project.

Before traffic can be moved to the new bridge, construction needs to occur to connect US 60 to both ends of the new bridge. In addition, work needs to be done on the existing bridges to relocate utilities, raise the existing south (eastbound) bridge to create a dedicated pedestrian bridge and demolish the north (westbound) bridge.

To accomplish this work, traffic on US 60/East Wickenburg Way is restricted to one lane in each direction through Wickenburg between Jack Burden Road (just east of the Hassayampa River) and US 93.

The lane restriction began March 9 and is expected to be in place through mid-June.

During the temporary lane restriction, traffic in both directions on US 60/East Wickenburg Way is being diverted onto the south (eastbound) bridge, while the north (westbound) bridge is closed to construct the bridge tie-ins. In mid-June, traffic will be switched to the new bridge. This will be followed by raising the south bridge, demolishing the north bridge and relocating utilities.

Completion of this work, including shifting traffic to the newly-completed bridge, will mark the end of Phase I of the Wickenburg Bypass Project. Once Phase I is complete, construction crews can begin work on the roadway for the bypass route.

Construction began February 2008 on the Wickenburg Interim Bypass Project. The project will provide a new roadway that avoids the historic downtown, following the west bank of the Hassayampa River. When completed, the new roadway will divert regional traffic from Wickenburg Way/Tegner Street, relieving congestion and improving traffic flow on US 93 and US 60.

The project will include constructing two roundabouts, a new roadway embankment that will provide flood protection to adjacent properties, and new bridges across the Hassayampa River and Sols Wash. Landscaping and other aesthetic features will be installed at the new entrance to the historic district, creating a unique, inviting gateway to Wickenburg.

The improvements are funded by the voter-approved Regional Transportation Plan for Maricopa County.

Drivers should anticipate delays and allow extra time, or adjust travel to avoid closures and restrictions. ADOT appreciates your patience as we construct improvements to US 60.

While ADOT strives to inform the public about planned roadway restrictions, during any complex construction project, there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Please visit our Web site for the most current information about planned and ongoing US 60/Wickenburg Bypass restrictions.

For information about Wickenburg Bypass improvements, contact the construction hotline at 866.688.5086.

For traffic updates across Arizona, visit ADOT's Travel Information Site at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.

Bill Williams
ADOT Community Relations
Phone: 928.759.2426 ext. 3620

Andrew Roth, P.E.
Resident Engineer
Phone: 928.759.2426

Construction Hotline: 866.688.5086

www.ValleyFreeways.com