City Set to Shell Out $531K for New Jamaica/McCulloch Traffic Light Bid

Lake Havasu City has greenlit additional funding for traffic safety improvements at the intersection of Jamaica and McCulloch Boulevards. This decision comes after the initial estimates for the traffic light installation exceeded expectations.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is overseeing the project, which has appeared twice before the City Council. Initially, the council approved an intergovernmental agreement (IGA), followed by a decision to utilize Highway Safety Improvement Funds provided by the state.

On Tuesday night, the council unanimously voted to allocate $531,810 from the fiscal year 2024-25 Capital Improvement Plan specifically for this project. These funds are sourced from Highway User Revenue Funds.

In January, an IGA with ADOT was established to handle the design and construction of the traffic signal. Initially, ADOT estimated that construction costs would be around $917,000, a figure that encompassed construction engineering, post-design services, and a contingency of $171,385, leaving $745,615 for the actual construction work.

However, assistant city engineer Mike Wolfe noted that ADOT’s lowest bid for the project came in significantly higher at $1.25 million, with another bid reaching approximately $1.6 million. The IGA stipulates that the city must cover any cost overruns.

“ADOT’s response was straightforward; they will invoice the city for $531,810. Upon payment, they will proceed to award the contract for the signal construction,” Wolfe stated.

Despite the additional costs, some city officials believe collaborating with ADOT is still financially beneficial. Mayor Cal Sheehy remarked, “Though the situation is frustrating, this intersection requires a signal for safety. We are saving approximately $100,000 overall, and this funding ultimately comes from taxpayers.”

With the city’s commitment to cover the additional costs, Wolfe indicated that ADOT is expected to award the contract in November, with construction projected to commence in January.

The project will not only install the traffic signal but will also enhance safety through various improvements, including the installation of speed feedback signs. These signs, positioned along McCulloch Boulevard near El Dorado, aim to address the high speeds recorded in the area.

In addition to the signaling, the project’s scope includes ADA sidewalk ramp enhancements, slurry seal application, and updates to signage and pavement markings as part of the overall safety improvements.