Due to a large rockslide incident in the switchback area of Oak Creek Canyon on State Route 89A on Wednesday evening, March 15, ADOT crews closed the highway to all traffic. After clearing the rocks and other debris, crews reopened the roadway at approximately 6 p.m. Thursday, March 16.
The switchback area is located within the SR 89A Oak Creek Canyon Improvements project, which is currently shutdown for the winter. The project is anticipated to restart in the spring, sometime between April and May. There is additional rockfall mitigation work to finish at the rockslide location, as well as at another location just north of Uptown Sedona that is scheduled to begin this summer.
Overview
Project Cost: $11,111,111
The Arizona Department of Transportation, in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration, has initiated a project on State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon that is expected to be under construction in early spring 2022 and anticipated to be completed in late 2023. The project includes:
- Rockfall Mitigation
- Drainage and Sediment Control
- Pumphouse Wash Bridge Rehabilitation
The improvements are needed to continue maintaining safety and access along SR 89A.
Rockfall Mitigation
The rockfall mitigation work will help reduce the potential of rocks falling onto the roadway at two locations along SR 89A. The first location is north of Sedona city limits at milepost 375, and the second location is located in the switchback section of the roadway at mileposts 388-389.
To ensure the safety of drivers and work crews during rock-removal operations, intermittent closures of some parts of the highway will be necessary. A schedule of traffic restrictions will be provided prior to work beginning.
Drainage and Sediment Control
The work consists of drainage and sediment-control improvements by reducing erosion to preserve deteriorating slopes and reduce downstream pollution. The work between mileposts 388-389 includes installing concrete barrier, pipes, retaining wall, catch basin and gabion mattresses, roadside drainage excavation and other related work.
Pumphouse Wash Bridge Rehabilitation
The Pumphouse Wash Bridge is located on SR 89A at milepost 388. Options to either rehabilitate or replace the existing bridge have been under evaluation by ADOT engineers since 2006. After extensive study, it was determined a full replacement of the bridge would negatively impact endangered species, stream water quality and the historic nature of the bridge. These factors led to the determination that the bridge will be rehabilitated to extend its service life. Constructed in 1931, the bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
What to Expect During Construction
With the exception of limited daytime and overnight closures, SR 89A will remain open to traffic. Traffic restrictions using a combination of temporary traffic signals and/or flagging operation will be in place while the improvements are under construction. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane only through the work zone(s) with alternating north- and southbound travel. ADOT is committed to completing the improvements as quickly as possible, while balancing the transportation and needs of local and nearby communities.
No full closures will be allowed during weekends (outside of the allowable closure periods for SR 89A) and state holidays. Schedules are subject to change based on weather and other unforeseen factors.
Project Area Map
Restrictions and Closures
The roadway will be narrowed to one lane only through the work zone(s) with alternating north- and southbound travel. ADOT is committed to completing the improvements as quickly as possible, while balancing the transportation and needs of local and nearby communities.
ADOT will post information a minimum of seven days in advance of full closures and will post information about traffic restrictions as they become available.
To receive traffic alerts and other updates by email, please subscribe here.
You can also learn of real-time, project-related restrictions and closures by visiting az511.gov or call 511, except while driving.
Schedules are subject to change because of weather or other unforeseen factors. Remember to slow down and use caution around construction workers and equipment.
Background
Initially, the three improvements were going to be completed at different times by two different contractors, but all the work will now be completed by one contractor.
This helps address increasing construction costs, the challenges of working on a narrow-and-winding canyon road and the complexity of the work. It will also help better coordinate traffic impacts required to complete the work.
Stay Informed
By email: Subscribe to receive traffic alerts and project updates directly to your email.
Phone: Jason Stephens, ADOT Community Relations Project Manager: 480.751.7104
Teléfono: Línea de Información del Proyecto ADOT: 855.712.8530
Online: Submit a question or comment through the ADOT website by visiting azdot.gov/Contactand then select “Projects” from the dropdown menu.
