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ADOT details local highway projects; RTAC says legislative budget outlook could free more transportation funding
Summary
ADOT outlined ongoing and planned projects in Kingman and the Havasu corridor, and the Rural Transportation Advocacy Council reported an improved state revenue forecast that could leave hundreds of millions for next year's budget, with advocates seeking added support for the Arizona Smart Fund.
The Arizona Department of Transportation and the Rural Transportation Advocacy Council (RTAC) briefed Tri City officials on Jan. 15 about project work and the state budget outlook for transportation.
Todd Steinberger, ADOT Northwest District assistant district engineer, summarized construction and preservation work in the region: the US-93 West Kingman interchange (under construction, with roughly two more years of work), the Andy Devine bridge deck replacement near I-40 (expected to wrap up in spring), the Rancho Santa Fe/Rattlesnake interchange earthwork and bridge work, pavement-preservation projects between Wikiup and Wickenburg, and a broadband conduit project along I-40 that would extend from Flagstaff to the California border. Steinberger also noted work around Walnut Creek, Holy Moses Wash and an upcoming preconstruction meeting for US-93 Cane Springs widening to four lanes.
Why it matters: ADOT projects affect local travel, freight routes and economic development timelines. Steinberger said some projects are years out while others are actively progressing into construction.
Budget and grant support: A representative of the Rural Transportation Advocacy Council reported a substantially improved state revenue picture. The Joint Legislative Budget Committee’s updated numbers show collections above forecasts and the budget staff’s current projection that the state will finish the fiscal year roughly $940 million above earlier estimates. The RTAC presenter said that, after setting aside reserves, the legislature could have an additional roughly $560 million to allocate next year; transportation advocates want a portion directed to transportation and to restore or expand the Arizona Smart Fund, which helps rural communities prepare competitive federal grant applications.
RTAC said House Bill 2101 (not yet filed at the time of the Tri City meeting) would seek an appropriation to replenish the Smart Fund; RTAC members recommended $10 million as a starting point but said $20–25 million would better maintain current award levels. The Smart Fund has been used to match federal infrastructure opportunities and is a key tool for rural applicants.
Speakers in this update included Todd Steinberger (ADOT) and a Rural Transportation Advocacy Council representative.
