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Structure ends threat of flooding closures on busy stretch of US 95
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YUMA – Yuma-area drivers no longer have to worry about sudden
rainstorms flooding Fortuna Wash and shutting down US 95, the area’s primary
north-south route.
Starting Thursday, Dec. 15, traffic will begin flowing over a
new bridge connecting Yuma with Interstate 10, Quartzsite and the rest of
western Arizona. The bridge is expected to open Thursday afternoon.
“This is a great day for southwest Arizona,” said Paul
Patane, ADOT district engineer. “Our community relies on US 95 every day of the
year, and this bridge means a clear route for the people who live here and
important commercial carriers.”
Final work on the bridge and US 95 will continue until
spring. Drivers should expect a 45-mph speed limit in the area until work is
complete.
US 95 is the only north-south route connecting
Yuma with Interstate 10 and Arizona locations along the Colorado River. Until
now, it has taken drivers through the wash and has been subject to unexpected
closures during heavy rains.
The bridge will make US 95 a safer and
more-reliable route for agricultural shipments, international trade and
seasonal visitors. It also will make travel more reliable for employees and
cargo shipments at Yuma Proving Ground, a U.S. Army facility with more than
3,000 military and civilian employees. The area’s largest employer, it is one
of the largest military installations in the world and home to General Motors’
hot-weather vehicle test facility. It has an economic impact of more than $430
million annually.
The $15 million project is partially funded by a
$3.2 million federal grant.
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