Safety and drainage improvements are coming to Scottsdale Road north of Dynamite
Work will begin this month to rebuild a two-mile stretch of Scottsdale Road from Jomax Road to Dixileta Drive. The project will improve safety and drainage along this busy corridor.
A key safety improvement is the new multilane roundabout that will replace the current signalized intersection at Scottsdale Road and Dynamite Boulevard.
Roundabouts have been proven to reduce the likelihood of severe crashes by minimizing conflict points and forcing slower vehicle speeds. Roundabouts are also more cost-effective in the long run, requiring less maintenance than traffic signals.
The raised center median that will replace the current continuous center turn lane along this two-mile section is a safety improvement as well. This change will minimize vehicle conflict points, as will new left turn in and left turn out lanes which will be built at busier crossings. Finally, a pedestrian crosswalk signal at Pinnacle Vista Drive, a shared use path and bike lanes will improve safety and usability for pedestrians and bicyclists enjoying the area’s natural beauty.
This project will also address drainage issues. In its current configuration, the roadway dips and rises with the contour of the land – which means that substantial rain can create unsafe conditions and force restrictions as water collects in low points along the road. This project will eliminate those low points, installing a handful new drainage culverts to handle stormwater flows while keeping the roadway clear.
The total project budget is $43.7 million. About $31 million will be funded with federal transportation grant funds, the remainder will come from Scottsdale’s dedicated transportation sales tax and regional transportation funds.
Scottsdale Airport Is Updating
A $1 million master planning project has been proposed for the Scottsdale Airport and is funded almost entirely by a Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program grant.
This initiative will shape the airport’s future over the next 20 years. The new plan will not include a noise study but will focus solely on essential plan objectives.
Kicked off with an open house guided by Coffman Associates, on Oct. 29, Aviation Director Gary P. Mascaro was quoted as saying, “Embarking on a master plan update is our proactive commitment to securing Scottsdale Airport’s long-term success as we soar to new heights in the aviation industry.” Mascaro went on to state, “This is an opportunity to explore innovative ideas and solutions with many audiences, including airport users, tenants, businesses and community members. Public input will be key to developing a plan that best serves our community.”
The master plan will evaluate current facilities and operations, and prioritize projects that improve safety, efficiency, sustainability and growing operational demands. By doing so, the plan helps to ensure Scottsdale Airport continues to thrive as one of the nation’s top general aviation hubs.
Scottsdale will engage with stakeholders throughout the 18-month process.
Are you interested in volunteer work? Do you want to help protect and maintain our desert lands? Volunteer as a Preserve Park Steward!
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is looking for volunteers to help monitor, protect, and maintain over 35,000 acres of preserve land. With a small team of Park Rangers overseeing these public spaces, becoming a Park Steward offers a meaningful way to give back to the natural areas so many enjoy. Park Stewards contribute in many ways including:
• Hike Patrol
• Bike Patrol
• Trail work
• Unofficial Trail Mitigation
• Tree Trimming
• Native Plant Revegetation
• Special Events
• Educational Programs
• Community Outreach
Park Stewards can even perform their duties while using their own personal equipment such as a bicycle or horse! They will also receive identification gear, field training and continuous support from park staff. Note that there is a minimum age of 16.
For more information, and to complete an application, visit volunteer.phoenix.gov/custom/501/opp_details/2835.
