The state’s largest-ever public works project, building nearly 150 miles of new freeways in the Valley, will conclude this summer when the final segment of the Red Mountain Freeway opens, marking a successful 20-year partnership to connect communities.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will host Roundin' Out the Red Mountain, a freeway opening event from 5 pm to 8 pm on July 15th, to celebrate completion of Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway). The completion of this final segment between Power Road & University Drive in Mesa represents an important milestone in transportation improvements in the Valley including the completion of the Red Mountain Freeway, the conclusion of Proposition 300 projects & the successful partnership between taxpayers & ADOT spanning more than 20 years. Other Proposition 300 projects include the entire Loop 101 & State Route 51.
Voters approved Proposition 300 in 1985, creating a one-half cent sales tax to fund a Regional Freeway System, including the Red Mountain Freeway. The Red Mountain Freeway is the second component of Loop 202 in the East Valley; the Santan Freeway was completed in July 2006.
In 2004, Maricopa County voters approved a 20-year extension of the one-half cent sales tax to fund a comprehensive package of diverse transportation improvements as part of the Regional Transportation Plan. Funding for the plan, which includes $9 billion in freeway improvements in Maricopa County, became effective in 2006. Proposition 400 will fuel new projects like Loop 303, the proposed Williams Gateway Freeway & HOV lanes across the Valley.
The celebration event will take place on the new, nearly 5-mile-long segment of Loop 202 between Power Road & University Drive. ADOT is encouraging community members from across the Valley to attend the event, which will include a brief ceremony with local leaders, a 5k Fun Run/Bike Ride, a variety of exhibits by businesses & organizations, & an ADOT Road Show creatively detailing how freeways are designed & constructed.
There are many ways to get involved in this event. All are invited to attend & enjoy the activities. Additionally, local businesses & organizations are encouraged to set up exhibits or donate services for the event.
Finally, ADOT reminds drivers & local residents that the Loop 202 segment from Power Road to University Drive is still an active construction zone & remains closed to pedestrian & vehicle traffic until the formal opening in mid-July.