Council approves Walden Grove traffic signal IGA; protected left turn, camera timing planned

Sahuarita — The Town Council unanimously approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Sahuarita Unified School District and adopted Resolution No. 2025-0827 to construct a traffic signal at the Delgado and Sahuarita Road intersection near Walden Grove High School.

Public Works Director Rey Nalavalli (staff) summarized the design and safety considerations: the project will install a traffic signal with a protected left-turn phase into the school entrance, add signage, and lengthen left-turn storage to roughly 477 feet so turning vehicles will not spill into through lanes. Council and staff discussed and rejected a flashing yellow permissive left alternative in favor of the protected left because a higher proportion of student drivers will be making the turn.

Nalavalli said the project will use camera-based detection rather than in-pavement loop detectors to allow adaptable, real-time timing that can respond to peak morning flows. He also noted the corridor’s existing conduits will reduce roadway work; main construction involves median modification and signal hardware.

The council moved and seconded adoption of the IGA resolution and voted unanimously. The agreement funds construction (budgeted at $750,000) and anticipates coordination with the school district; Nalavalli said town staff intend to start work promptly with the goal of completing the signal before the fall semester begins.

The motion carried unanimously and staff will transmit the approval to the school district for its concurrent action and proceed with contractor coordination.