Downtown Catalyst Project Advances as New Bridge Designs Enter Review Phase

Lake Havasu City is making strides with the Downtown Catalyst project and the Second Bridge, initiatives that have been underway for years. As part of this endeavor, the Public Works Department began site preparations in June, removing over 800 loads of dirt to create a downtown gathering space.

Concord General Contracting, Inc. has been awarded a $2.6 million bid, which will encompass grading, landscaping, irrigation, utility infrastructure, lighting, and paving for pedestrian and vehicular access. The project’s completion is anticipated by May 2025.

City Manager Jess Knudson highlighted plans to rename the upcoming downtown space, stating, “The current name, ‘Downtown Catalyst Project,’ doesn’t reflect the vision we have.”

In addition to the downtown project, proposals for the design of the second bridge are under review. Following a recent public hearing, three companies—Kimley Horn, NV5 Inc., and Michael Baker International—submitted their bids by the July 10 deadline.

Knudson confirmed that the city is evaluating proposals from experienced bridge architects. Mayor Cal Sheehy shared during a recent “Coffee with the Mayor” event that a design contract could be presented to the City Council in October, allowing for public feedback before construction commences. This phase could start in about 18 months following approval.

Knudson remains optimistic about meeting the proposed timeline, stating, “If things go smoothly, we should be able to bring this to council by October.”

The overall budget for these initiatives is significant, with $35.5 million allocated—$5.5 million for design and $30 million for the bridge construction and new roadway connection. Michael Baker International has identified a potential route for the roadway, recommending South Palo Verde Boulevard, which would extend across part of Lake Havasu State Park.