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MAG’s Grand Avenue Corridor Study accepted; Surprise council hears regional plan and timeline for major interchange work
Summary
Maricopa Association of Governments presented a final Grand Avenue/US‑60 corridor study highlighting 2030–2050 growth, an urgent need to address the US‑60/Loop 303 interchange, and a funded interchange at 155th Avenue slated for design and FY2028 construction; council thanked MAG and discussed funding sequencing.
The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) presented its final Grand Avenue Corridor Study to the Surprise City Council on April 7, describing long‑range traffic, safety and sequencing recommendations for the Grand Avenue / US‑60 corridor.
Key findings: MAG staff told council that by 2050 the corridor north of Loop 303 will experience substantial residential and commercial growth, yielding much higher vehicle and truck volumes. The report emphasized that earlier short‑term fixes have provided temporary relief but that long‑term investments are required, including widening US‑60 and improving access between arterials and Grand Avenue. MAG highlighted a funded new interchange at Loop 303 and 155th Avenue: design is underway and construction presently is expected to be ready in fiscal year 2028; MAG said additional regional improvements could be constructed between 2031 and 2035, with over a half‑billion dollars in regional investment currently slated for the area.
Why it matters: Council members said the study gives a prioritization and timeline for projects that will relieve congestion, enhance safety and allow for continued growth. Several members praised outreach and interim improvements that have improved commutes in the near term, while stressing the need to accelerate design and funding for the ultimate interchange and US‑60 improvements.
Council discussion: Members raised questions about regional funding figures and the study’s sequencing. MAG staff said some projects have dedicated funding; others will require design and right‑of‑way activities before construction can be programmed. Members asked about truck volumes and BNSF coordination; MAG said freight data were incorporated into modeling results.
Next steps: MAG and Surprise staff will continue coordination on grant applications and program updates. ADOT’s design work on the 155th Avenue interchange was described as already in final design, with construction ready for FY2028 pending funding and scheduling.
Provenance: Staff presentation and Q&A begin at SEG 1788 and continue through SEG 2140.
