This is the July 30, 2013 weekly construction update for the Sahuarita Road Phase II project, specifically Project Segments 2A and 2B .
Last week, within the Segment 2A Project, crews began drilling the shafts for the future westbound bridge pier columns. There are (8) 5'-6' diamater shafts that are nearly 100' deep that together will be the foundation for the new westbound bridge. This week, steel reinformcent cages and structural concrete were added to the drilled shafts. Over the next several weeks crews will form and pour the new pier columns and/or bridge abutments at the appropriate drilled shaft locations.
Currently, all Sahuarita Road traffic between La Villita Road and the realigned Nogales Highway, will remain on the new eastbound lanes (and onto the new bridge at the Santa Cruz River). This traffic shift is allowing the construction of the future westbound lanes and new westbound bridge across the Santa Cruz River (see map). Speed limits will be reduced in the vicinity of traffic shift for the safety of the workers and traveling public.
The Segment 2B project – Nogales Highway Realignment – is approximately two-miles in length, roughly one-mile North and one-mile South of Sahuarita Road. Crews are working to complete a new railroad crossing signal as well as a new traffic signal at the intersection of Sahuarita Road. Crews will return in mid-August to install final lane stripes and pavement markings. Upon completion of these improvements, all Nogales Highway traffic will be moved onto the new roadway alignment.
As part of the ongoing construction efforts, drivers should be aware of all traffic control devices/signage and all speed limit reductions, as large equipment may be working near the roadways.
A summary of the anticipated short-term (2-3 week) construction activities can be seen in the July 30, 2013 Look Ahead Schedule