Bridge deck continues taking shape at Bell/Grand project

SURPRISE ‒ From the rising walls and columns bearing a distinctive agave pattern to the bridge sections receiving a concrete deck, a $41.9 million overpass and interchange under construction at Bell Road and Grand Avenue (US 60) remains on track to reopen Bell Road to traffic in November.

Pouring concrete for the bridge deck will require closing Grand Avenue in both directions from 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, to 5 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8. During that time, traffic will detour at Dysart and Litchfield roads.

While traffic in both directions shares the future westbound lanes of Grand Avenue, crews continue building new eastbound lanes.

Meanwhile, progress continues on retaining wall panels in parts of the structure that will use reinforced earth to carry the roadway and ramps.

While Bell Road is closed between 134th Avenue and West Point Parkway to reduce the project’s length and lessen the overall impact of construction, drivers can access nearby businesses throughout.

The primary detour routes while Bell Road is closed are Dysart, Greenway and Litchfield roads. Drivers should observe signs and speed limits and note that law enforcement officers are patrolling.

Bell Road is scheduled to reopen to traffic by November, while the entire interchange project is scheduled for completion by spring 2017.