Rockfall mitigation project starts in early August on SR 80 northwest of Bisbee

BISBEE – Drivers on State Route 80 northwest of Bisbee should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes starting in mid-August as the Arizona Department of Transportation begins a $3.5 million rockfall mitigation project.

The project will involve excavating rock from slopes along SR 80, which will create a wider “clear zone'' on both sides of the highway to decrease the risk of debris landing on the roadway. This safety improvement will take place near the intersection of SR 90 near Pintek Road, at milepost 334.

Preliminary work will begin the week of Monday, Aug. 2, when intermittent delays are possible while work crews begin mobilizing equipment and preparing the site. By mid-August, drivers should plan for consistent alternating lane closures with flaggers directing one lane of travel through the work zone at a time. The work will occur during daytime hours, with delays of up to 15 minutes.

To limit traffic impacts, work crews will attempt to remove rock with heavy equipment. Blasting may be necessary, which would require a full closure of SR 80 near the work zone. Any blasting will be limited to pre-announced Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and detour alternatives would include SR 92 between Sierra Vista and Bisbee.

The project is expected to continue into mid-2022. For more information, visit the project website.