To the editor,

The State Route 347 widening is gaining momentum. Last week, the Arizona Department of Transportation’s financial team decided to make the entire project “state funded.” That move is a significant win for Maricopa. It means the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) process will now cover everything, the full widening from Interstate 10 to Maricopa, the new Riggs Road interchange, and the intersections at Mammoth Way and Casa Blanca Road.

We made it possible by boldly implementing a citywide half-cent sales tax and securing funding from Pinal County to get us over the edge.

ADOT also met with the Gila River Indian Community and its departments, Gila River Sand & Gravel and GRIC DOT. Those talks went great. Everyone is on the same page and ready to keep this project moving.

Construction timeline and next steps

ADOT advertised the CMAR on Friday. Firms have until Dec. 12 to submit qualifications. The shortlist is expected by mid-January, with a final selection anticipated by February. If that remains on track, construction may start in summer 2026.

ADOT will meet again soon with Pinal County to finalize the grant of easement. They’re also working with Gila River on the right-of-entry for the final design and geotechnical work.

This is all real progress. Our partnership with ADOT and our regional and tribal partners is paying off. The project is widening and the pace is quickening. You might not see dirt turning yet, but the groundwork is solid and the timeline is real.

For those who want to dig into the official documents, here are the links:
• ADOT RFQ Advertisement
• ADOT Amendment adding Riggs Road interchange

SR 347 widening is happening. It’s funded, coordinated and moving closer to construction every day.

Vincent Manfredi
Maricopa City Councilmember