SR 260: I-17 to Thousand Trails Road Widening Project
Features & Highlights
- 8-miles of two-lane roadway expanded to four-lane divided highway
- 7 roundabouts, a new 3 span bridge and a new multi-modal pathway
- Better traffic management and capacity improve safety across key corridor
Project Overview
With recent growth in Central Arizona’s Verde Valley, a key stretch of State Route 260 could no longer meet the demands of increased local and recreational traffic. To address this need, Sundt and a JV partner expanded eight miles of two-lane roadway into a continuous four-lane divided highway. We also completed seven roundabouts, a new 3 span precast girder bridge and a new multi-modal pathway from Cherry Creek Road to I-17. With more capacity and better traffic management, the wider highway is now improving safety and accessibility across the greater Verde Valley area, which includes the communities of Cottonwood, Clarkdale, Jerome, Sedona and Camp Verde.
The project also involved Sundt’s first use of Intelligent Compaction (IC) methods, using integrated measuring, reporting, and GPS systems installed on vibratory rollers. This technology allows operators to monitor compaction in real-time, letting them know when material has obtained the required compaction on the aggregate base course (what’s under the final asphalt surface layer) as well as the asphalt itself. The process allows for faster results as well as higher quality and uniformity of pavement materials, ensuring longer-lasting performance.