Construction Completion of Smith-Enke Project’s First Phase Set for Next Week

Construction at the intersection of John Wayne Parkway and Smith-Enke Road is nearing completion, with Maricopa City Manager Ben Bitter announcing that work is expected to finish ahead of schedule next week. Originally launched in September, this months-long project aims to enhance the intersection’s capacity to accommodate increasing traffic volumes.

Key improvements include the addition of a new shopping inlet to the CVS Pharmacy parking lot and an eastbound left turn lane from Smith-Enke onto John Wayne Parkway. Bitter informed city council members that paving is anticipated to conclude shortly, barring any unforeseen weather delays.

“We hope to wrap up paving on the project next week,” he stated during a recent meeting. However, he acknowledged that potential rain could delay work by a few days.

Looking ahead, Bitter outlined plans for a second phase of construction. “We assessed the roadway condition of the intersection itself and recognized it could use some refreshing.” He noted that the city could either replicate ADOT’s past methods, which might be disruptive, or prioritize community convenience.

This next phase is projected to occur in May or June, optimizing conditions for paving. It is expected to be completed within a two-weekend timeframe. “We’ll come back and finish that part up but try to be as least destructive as possible while still providing the opportunity for that roadway to last us well into the future,” Bitter added.