Committee approves asking ADOT to seek segmentation of I‑11 between Casa Grande and Wickenburg
Loading...
Summary
After expert testimony and environmental objections, the committee gave House Bill 26‑01 a due‑pass recommendation to ask ADOT to pursue segmentation of the I‑11 project so unaffected segments can proceed while litigation continues on the southern route.
The Senate Appropriations Committee recommended that ADOT seek segmentation for the Interstate‑11 project between Casa Grande and Wickenburg so environmental reviews on that portion can proceed independently of litigation affecting the southernmost route.
Representative Matt Gress introduced HB 26‑01 and said segmentation would allow ADOT to carry out tier‑1 and tier‑2 studies on the Casa Grande‑Wickenburg segment while litigation continues on the southern portion. Transportation advocate Mike Ingram outlined decades of federal and state engagement on I‑11 and said there are seven segments of independent utility; he urged the committee to allow the unaffected segments to move forward. "Let the litigation continue on the southernmost portion," Ingram said, arguing segmentation is a common federal practice.
Environmental groups, represented by Sierra Club’s Sandy Barr, opposed the measure, warning of habitat fragmentation, species impacts, greenhouse gas increases and a multi‑billion dollar price tag. Senators probed the financing and local infrastructure needs and repeatedly raised concerns about maintenance and funding for existing roads.
The committee voted 6–4 to give HB 26‑01 a due‑pass recommendation. Several members said they supported the concept but wanted more work on funding and project delivery prior to floor consideration.
Next steps: The bill advances with a committee recommendation and will require further floor consideration and possible amendments addressing funding and environmental concerns.
