Design Process Begins for Alma School Road Improvements in South Chandler
Last month, Chandler City Council gave the green light to begin improvements on Alma School Road from Germann to Queen Creek roads. The city council awarded a professional services agreement to Olsson, Inc., for design services in an amount not to exceed $741,307.12.

A 2019 Design Concept Report (DCR) provided improvement recommendations for Alma School Road between Pecos and Queen Creek roads. Phase 1 of the project included widening of the Alma School Road corridor from Pecos to Germann roads. Construction was completed in 2021. This project, from Germann to Queen Creek roads, is Phase 2. It meets the recommendations from the DCR and the council-approved 2019 Transportation Master Plan Update to widen Alma School Road from four lanes to six lanes. This will provide higher capacity and allow residents to efficiently access regional transportation facilities. The project will begin at the first median break south of Germann Road to the intersection at Queen Creek Road.

The project scope of work consists of the design for the widening of Alma School Road, including the design of pavement and median improvements, sewer manhole rehabilitation, streetlight relocation and upgrades, traffic signal modifications and utility coordination. The project is tentatively scheduled to begin construction in 2025.

For more information, chandleraz.gov/trafficrestrictions.

Hike ‘A’ Mountain with Sparky
Photo courtesy of Arizona State University
On Saturday, March 16, Arizona State University invites Sun Devil families to lace up their hiking boots and join Sparky for an invigorating morning hike up the iconic ‘A’ Mountain. From 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., participants can take in the natural beauty of Tempe’s iconic landmark, sharing in the spirit and tradition of one of ASU’s most famous symbols.

The event kicks off at the base of ‘A’ Mountain, where families will be greeted with ASU trivia and history. As they ascend the gentle slopes, hikers will be rewarded with stunning vistas and the chance to savor the wonderful Arizona weather.

Upon reaching the summit, families will have the opportunity to capture memories with a family photo session featuring Sparky, ASU’s mascot.

Registration is open to all, with a simple email sign-up process. Attendees can indicate their affiliation with Sun Devil Generations to unlock exclusive perks. Don’t miss this chance to bond with family, meet other Sun Devil supporters, and create new traditions. For more information, visit https://ow.ly/syB350QAKOt.

Morning Squeeze Debuts The Counter in Tempe
Photo courtesy of The Counter
Valley residents who savor the vibes of Morning Squeeze for their breakfast and lunch can now enjoy a new sister concept, The Counter by Morning Squeeze. Located at 1725 W. University Dr., the casual diner is located in the commercial office row of Tempe’s University Drive.
Taking up residence in Morning Squeeze’s new catering commissary, The Counter preserves the diner ambiance established by the building’s previous tenants. With plenty of parking and easy freeway access, it’s a convenient staging area for catering orders.

The Counter’s menu caters to classic tastes, featuring dishes such as the hearty breakfast sandwich, biscuit & gravy, the staple BLT sandwich, and chili cheese fries. All entrées include a side selection of potatoes, fruit, fries, or chips. The establishment also offers all-day drip coffee with complimentary refills for dine-in guests.

Designed for both rapid dining and leisurely gatherings, The Counter provides a large community table ideal for group meetings and snug booths for a comfy, makeshift office space. Carry-out orders are facilitated with ease, with options for on-site preparation or phone orders for swift pick-up.

The Counter is open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m.- 2 p.m. Find The Counter on Instagram @thecounterbymorningsqueeze and at 480-967-6610.