In a Historic Win for Maricopa, ADOT Integrates SR 347 into 5-Year Blueprint

PAYSON and MARICOPA — An energized crowd filled the Maricopa Community Center early on June 20, 2025, as residents eagerly awaited a pivotal vote by the Arizona State Transportation Board. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, mostly fueled by a live stream from Gila County’s hearing room.

Residents, officials, and students from Maricopa made the 110-mile trek to advocate for critical improvements to State Route 347, which has been plagued by safety concerns. Toryn Terrell, a local parent, expressed his worries about his teenage drivers, highlighting the tangible dangers that commuters face daily.

“It’s exhausting being the squeaky wheel,” Terrell stated during the meeting. He emphasized that the community’s advocacy stems from genuine concern, not convenience. “We speak up, we organize, we show up—not because it’s easy, but because the stakes are real.”

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Board approved Option 3 in its updated five-year construction plan, paving the way for the long-awaited widening of State Route 347. This decision marks a significant step in addressing the growing traffic concerns on a vital commuter route.

“Three-forty-seven is a main priority,” emphasized Pinal County Supervisor Rich Vitiello. With 50,000 vehicles traversing the road daily, he underscored the urgent need for improvements. He also noted that Pinal County has committed $20 million to support the project.

An estimated $235 million will be allocated for enhancements along the SR 347 corridor, linking Maricopa to Interstate 10 and the greater Phoenix area. Mayor Nancy Smith revealed that the Maricopa City Council made a tough decision to raise sales tax to partially fund this crucial project.

“SR 347 is our only access route … it’s in crisis mode,” stated Councilmember Eric Goettl. The project involves widening the highway through both Maricopa and Pinal Counties, with local governments pledging $50 million in matching funds.

Support for the project has come from the Gila River Indian Community, reflecting safety and economic concerns that affect local residents.

Despite fierce lobbying for various projects around the state, many are left without funding. Residents of Star Valley advocated for improvements to State Route 260, a heavily trafficked corridor.

ADOT Board Chairwoman Jenn Daniels remarked on the competing priorities, likening the situation to “trying to feed six children with one slice of bread.” Ultimately, she stated that Option 3 offers the best pathway for efficient completion of necessary work.

Countless Maricopa speakers reiterated the pressing need for SR 347 improvements, citing statistics of over 2,500 crashes and 43 fatalities since 2015. The community has tirelessly campaigned for enhancements for over a decade.

“Time wasted while staff and deliveries sit on a broken and outdated state highway costs businesses untold thousands each year,” argued Kelly Anderson, executive director of the Greater Maricopa Business Alliance. “SR 347 might be the longest driveway in the state, but it’s our driveway.”

ADOT’s five-year program amounts to $12.7 billion statewide, and Option 3 is designed to expedite funding and completion of necessary projects.

“We love our city. We love our state, but a simple yes vote proves that you love us back,” Terrell added, highlighting the emotional investment of the community.