If you’ve seen crews moving dirt and poles along State Route 347 over the last few days, take it as a sign of good things to come. It’s one of the first steps for major improvements slated for Maricopa’s beleaguered highway.  

Laura Douglas, communications project manager for the Arizona Department of Transportation, told InMaricopa that crews are relocating utilities along the roadway.  

“[We’re] coordinating with Gila River Telecommunications Inc. and the Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority for utility relocations, which are necessary as part of this upcoming improvement project,” she said.  

Over the last two weeks, crews were seen installing new metal poles. On Monday, they were removing old lines and poles.  

Douglas said this work will occur over several weeks to make way for the Riggs Road overpass, which in the past has been identified as one of the most dangerous intersections in the country. Construction on the overpass is expected to begin next year.