Semi-trucks taller than 15 feet restricted on SR 85 in Gila Bend beginning May 31
Tall loads must use alternate route until October 30
May 18, 2011
YUMA — Due to an ongoing State Route 85 safety and improvement project in Gila Bend, the Arizona Department of Transportation is advising semi-trucks taller than 15 feet to use an alternate route to get through SR 85 (Pima Street) and Business Route 8 (Butterfield Trail) beginning May 31.
As part of the necessary improvements, crews are building a large retaining wall adjacent to the B-8 ramp and will not be able to accommodate tall semi-trucks around the SR 85 and B-8 intersection during construction.
Tall semi-trucks traveling between Gila Bend and Phoenix are encouraged to use alternate routes to bypass the construction zone. The recommended option is to take Old US 80 to Woods Road and then return to SR 85. Other options are available and can be used at the discretion of the drivers.
The $13.5 million project is just over one mile in length and includes construction of a new, elevated intersection at SR 85 and B-8, a wider bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad, and realigning both SR 85 and Maricopa Road.
Tall load restriction is expected to be in place until October 30 and the entire project is scheduled to be completed in by late 2012. The public will be notified once the height restrictions on this stretch of highway are lifted.
ADOT advises drivers to proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.
ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule.
For more information about this project please visit the project website or contact Gaby Kemp, Yuma District Senior Community Relations Officer at 928.699.8983. Local media should contact the ADOT Public Information Office at 1.800.949.8057. Visit us on facebook or our web site for more information about ADOT.
Visit ADOT’s Travel Information site at az511, call 5-1-1 within Arizona,or 1.888.411.ROAD outside the state for current information regarding road conditions statewide.
Sign up for ADOT email updates, including weekend freeway restrictions, at www.azdot.gov.
Please buckle up, observe speed limits, and never drink and drive.
