Bell/Grand project: In shadow of columns, progress being made at and below ground level

SURPRISE ‒ While columns that will support a $41.9 million overpass and interchange at Grand Avenue (US 60) and Bell Road are the most obvious signs of steady progress, a great deal of work is occurring at and below ground level.

On tap for the coming week as the Arizona Department of Transportation moves forward on the project: preparing to pave and form the curb and gutters to build the east side of Grand Avenue, adding electrical conduit and foundations for Grand Avenue lighting and installing a storm drain and sewer main on Bell Road east of 134th Drive.

Bell Road closed April 1 between 134th Drive and West Point Parkway to allow faster completion of a bridge that will carry traffic over Grand Avenue and the BNSF Railway tracks and provide ramps to and from Grand. The closure will end by November.

The primary detour route is along Dysart, Greenway and Litchfield roads. Please obey all traffic signs and posted speed limits, and also note that additional law enforcement is on patrol.

Access to businesses next to the project area will be maintained throughout the project.