Several improvements to State Route 189 in Nogales, Arizona, might soon receive enough federal funding to allow accelerated construction beginning in 2019 – a move that could save taxpayers millions.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has applied for a $25 million TIGER grant that, if approved, would allow construction of all proposed improvements to SR 189 at the same time. There are two phases, with only one of them funded so far.
Plans for SR 189 in Nogales include a southbound flyover ramp at Interstate 19, in addition to a northbound flyover ramp that’s currently funded. The grant, if approved, would also be earmarked for the bridge over Frank Reed Road, which leads to Nogales High School, and other improvements to the 3.75-mile route connecting the Mariposa Port of Entry with I-19.
ADOT currently has enough funding for the first phase of the project. It includes a flyover ramp connecting northbound SR 189 and northbound Interstate 19, along with other improvements, officials say.
A $25 million commitment from the Arizona Legislature, signed by Gov. Doug Ducey, enables ADOT to begin construction in 2019 – two years earlier than initially planned.
Because funding is still needed for the second phase, which includes the bridge and flyover ramps, ADOT is working with the City of Nogales and Santa Cruz County to coordinate a partnership that could include funding.
Allowing construction of both phases to begin at the same time could trim the estimated project costs by $13 million, from $147 million to $134 million, according to ADOT.
