The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) says an $8.7 million project to widen a two-mile segment of State Route 77 that's located 10 miles north of Winkelman will start by October 1st. The project will create roadway shoulders and a rockfall containment ditch.
Nearly one-half million cubic yards of rock will have to be blasted from the adjacent cliff to provide room for the widening. Because of the limited space available, the highway will have to be closed during daytime hours through April 2009. Traffic between Winkelman and Globe will be diverted to State Route 177 and US 60.
The highway will be open for restricted travel during nighttime hours. One lane will be open, with signals at each end of the work zone to control one-way alternating traffic. Drivers can expect a 10 minute wait at the signals.
Special provisions will be made to provide access through the work area by emergency vehicles.
For road conditions and up-to-date restrictions around Arizona, dial 511 or visit az511.com.