A: This section of roadway was built as a 4-lane divided highway in the 1950s. We held a number of design meetings to get public feedback on improvements in 2016 and 2017.

This stretch of roadway is very congested, particularly during weekday travel times. Traffic from adjoining streets has difficulty accessing US 70 North Main Street.

We have secured funding to add another lane in each direction to improve traffic flow and safety as well as build box culverts at the bridge crossing the Alameda Trail to improve storm drainage. By adding a new traffic signal at the US 70 Main Street intersection with Elks Drive and North Triviz Drive, we can link that signal with our current system to better time the light. Finally, we are installing ADA-compliant sidewalks for better pedestrian access.

A: About $20.8 million.

A: Originally, construction was expected to last about nine (9) months, from the end of January 2024 through mid to late October 2024. However, due to some unforeseen conflicts with utility lines, the completion date has been extended to late January 2025.

A: Yes, we will work with businesses to provide access throughout construction. 

A: US 70 is a state route, so we cannot restrict truck traffic. We can encourage truck traffic to use I-10 and I-25. 

There are no detours planned at this time since US 70 North Main will not be fully closed. Typically, when traffic is more congested due to construction, motorists seek their own alternative routes.

The sidewalks are 5 feet wide because that is what is our standard. Unfortunately, we do not have room to make them wider, because they go to the limits of our right-of-way.

We typically only provide flaggers only when a road is totally closed, which will not happen during this project. We recognize that controlling access to businesses may be challenging when traffic is congested, but will provide access to the best of our ability during construction.

We will do what we can to minimize adverse impacts from traffic and will get construction done as quickly as we can.

Working at night on this project would not help. Because we must demolish the lanes at the bridge, we would not be able to open any additional lanes during the day. Also, working at night is less productive (takes more time) and not as safe for our construction crews.