Since the P3 method encourages innovation and optimization of efficiencies, the current freeway design incorporates some changes from the early design concepts that minimize the right of way impacts while increasing safety and reducing traffic restrictions during construction. Innovation and efficiency examples throughout the freeway corridor include:

Half diverging diamond interchanges at Desert Foothills Parkway and 17th Avenue

Modifying interchanges to improve traffic operations and minimize right of way requirements

Yes. The state retains ownership of the SMF, and C202P is granted a non-exclusive license (not ownership) for 30 years to access and use the freeway and its structures to carry out operations and maintenance. C202P must return to the state a freeway in excellent condition at the end of the maintenance period in 2050. Although C202P must maintain the freeway, ADOT can make improvements, if warranted, at its own cost.

C202P is the developer responsible for the design, building and maintenance of the SMF for 30 years after completion of construction. The team consists of Fluor Enterprises Inc., Granite Construction Co. and Ames Construction Inc., with WSP Inc. as the lead designer.

A P3 refers to the contractual agreement between a public agency and a private sector entity to have greater participation in the delivery of a transportation project. By securing a P3, the entire SMF project can be constructed as one project rather than nine, as originally scheduled, which accelerated project delivery by at least three years. For additional information on the P3 process please visit the P3 Initiatives page.

The freeway was funded by state, federal and local dollars. It is not tolled. The final design, construction and 30-year maintenance of the freeway occurred through a public-private partnership (P3) agreement with C202P. This P3 not only expedited construction, but also reduced the overall cost. This project would have cost an estimated $100 million more than it did if ADOT had not utilized a P3 and the design-build project delivery method.

A right red arrow means No Right on Red, and should be treated as a red traffic light, per the Arizona Driver’s License Manual. This means traffic cannot turn right on red and must remain stopped until the arrow turns green.

C202P will handle all maintenance, including pothole repairs, signage, rehabilitation and striping. C202P must adhere to strict performance standards set forth by ADOT. If the highway is not maintained to these specified performance measures, C202P will incur financial penalties.

The SMF project is part of a Design-Build-Maintain Agreement, or DBMA. The DBMA is between C202Pand ADOT. C202P, who is responsible for the design-build work, will also be responsible for maintaining the freeway for 30 years.

The project team anticipates 59th Avenue will be open to traffic in summer 2020. On 59th Avenue – like many other major roadways adjacent to and part of the freeway project – intermittent street and lane closures are required for the safety of the community. When closures are in place, adequate detours with clear signage are provided.

ADOT sends weekly emails and text message alerts regarding construction activities, restrictions and closures. ADOT encourages individuals who live or travel near the future freeway to sign up for project alerts on the Follow Us page.