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SIERRA VISTA — The number of vehicles traveling along highways 90 and 92 in the city is expected to double by 2035, state transportation planners say.
They’re seeking the public’s input this week in helping to plan for the traffic.
Traffic lights, road widening, medians and other types of improvements are being considered for 4.5 miles of highways 90 and 92 from Campus Drive to Glenn Road-Katchina Trail.
The Arizona Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting on the proposed improvements from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Buena High School.
  
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“The meeting will start with an open house to provide opportunity for attendees to view maps and graphics and speak to study team members,” said Linda Ritter, an ADOT spokeswoman.
A 15-minute presentation by ADOT will begin at 6:30 p.m.
“Engineers will talk about the traffic analysis and the recommendations based on that,” Ritter said.
Average annual daily traffic count for that section of highway was about 28,000 vehicles in 2006. That number is expected to reach 56,000 by 2035.
“It’s a growing area and a growing corridor,” Ritter said.
So far, one study recommendation is to widen the highway to seven lanes, said Bill Harmon, the Safford district engineer for ADOT.
During a public meeting in November, feedback from the public addressed roadway design and speed limits. Some bicyclists also attended to offer ideas.
Since that meeting, a design concept report has been in development by the engineering firm Dibble and Associates.
“Continual growth has hampered the highway’s ability to move traffic efficiently,” according to the Dibble and Associates Web site. “Alternatives will be considered to reduce congestion and improve traffic operations through the city. Access control and impacts to right of way are critical components to the study.”
Accident data and the hydrology for seven large culverts and numerous smaller culverts are also included in the study.
Engineers will soon be “back to the drawing board,” and are in need additional feedback from the public to help determine a preferred plan.
Besides comments from the meetings, the environmental impacts, right-of-way needs, impacts to businesses and residents, cost of construction and, most important, safety will be considered, Ritter said.
Representatives from ADOT and the Federal Highway Administration and engineering consultants will answer questions and listen to comments.
REPORTER Laura Ory can be reached at 515-4683 or by e-mail at laura.ory@svherald.com.
MEETING
The open house on possible improvements to highways 90 and 92 will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Buena High School. For information, call Linda Ritter at (520) 388-4266.
SV Mom wrote on Jul 14, 2008 10:23 AM: