Vail, Rita Ranch, and Corona Construction Updates by Tom Howard
Road Construction Update
- Houghton Rd/Over Union Pacific Railroad.
This project had its bid opening on November 30, 2016. As of writing the City of Tucson has not yet awarded the project.
The preliminary low bidder was Pulice Construction out of Phoenix. Projected start dates are pending for this project. We will pass on information as it becomes available.
Arizona Department of Transportation Updates
- ADOT (Arizona Department of Transportation) Traffic signal installations. The plans show bid dates to install traffic signals at Wilmot, Kolb, Rita, Houghton and Vail road interchanges. Projected bid advertisement dates are January – March 2017.
No bid date has been released as of yet.
- I-10/Wilmot bridge deck Rehab, 2nd quarter of 2017
Not yet advertised.
Craycroft & I-10
Work continues as crews build the temporary bridge structure. Eventually all traffic on Interstate 10 will be shifted onto the detour while the contractor replaces the bridge deck on the existing structure. Plans are to complete Eastbound I-10 first and then the westbound side. Speed limits will be reduced during this project. Please slow down and stay alert.
Rita Road & I-10
Some of you have noticed the change to the stop sign configuration on the Eastbound Rita Rd exit. ADOT decided to add a three way stopping system to the off ramp a few weeks back. They are trying to give a little relief to the traffic backups on I-10. At this point it appears to be working. Be alert in the area, some motorist still don’t know it’s a three way stop and there have been numerous cars running thru the stop signs. Eventually Rita Rd will get a traffic signal and this will solve all the existing issues.
- I-19/Pima Mine bridge deck rehab. Bid opening Date 01/13/17
The proposed work is located in Pima County on Interstate 19 between mileposts 49.29 and 50.00, approximately 15 miles south of the City of Tucson. Part of the project is located within the boundaries of the Tohono O’odham Nation San Xavier District. The proposed work consists of removing and replacing the SB and NB bridge decks, widening the roadway at both ends of the SB bridge, reconstructing roadway and bridge approaches, replacing guardrail and guardrail end treatments, replacing pavement markings, and other miscellaneous work.
Low bidder for this project was a local company K E & G Construction, Inc.
The low bidder is awaiting award by the Arizona Department of Transportation. Once Awarded construction should begin in approximately 45 days.
All ADOT advertisement dates are subject to change.
Colossal Cave Road
The contractor continues to progress with this project. Traffic has been switched to the West side of the roadway as work progresses on driveways, sidewalks and drainage on the East side. The weather plays a major role in scheduling. With all the rain we have been getting some items may be delayed. There is a lot of signage in the area. Please be alert for the school zone signage during school hours. As always the speed limit in the school zone is 15 MPH and the Pima County Sheriff’s office has been strictly enforcing speeds in the area. Construction at the rail road tracks will be coming soon. We will keep you updated.
Mary Ann Cleveland Safety Improvements
The new lighting along Mary Ann Cleveland along the North side of the roadway in front of Cienega High School has been energized; the new lighting has drastically improved lighting and safety at the driveways coming out of the High School. The pedestrian crossing has been activated as well. Please be prepared for students using the new signal and to stop on red. Please use caution in the area. Traffic Control Change Ahead signage had been added to alert motorist to this change.
Projects that may affect your commute
Valencia Road will be re-paved from Alvernon to Park Avenue. Expect delays getting to the airport while this project gets started. Utilities have been lowered below the pavement so the crews can begin milling and paving operations. I expect a lot of activity on this project shortly.