Major Intersection Undergoes Transformation Today: Brace for Upcoming Closures!

Starting today, crews are working at the intersection of Smith-Enke and Porter Roads to enhance pedestrian safety by installing new crosswalk signals. This crucial upgrade began on September 10, 2024, as part of the city’s commitment to public safety amidst increasing traffic.

Temporary lane closures are scheduled for September 12, 13, and 17, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. This busy intersection divides four major neighborhoods: Rancho El Dorado, The Lakes, Province, and Homestead.

Monica Williams, a city spokesperson, emphasized, “This project reflects our ongoing commitment to assessing and addressing the traffic and safety needs as our city grows.” The intersection’s upgrade was prompted by a notable rise in both pedestrian and vehicle traffic, as confirmed by Maricopa’s traffic engineer.

Scott Nodes explained the process of determining traffic signal placements, noting the adherence to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which is adopted statewide. Key factors in these decisions include the type of street, crash and traffic flow data, and notable landmarks in the vicinity.

Maricopa has three roadway classifications: residential, collector, and arterial. Residential streets are lined with homes; collector streets gather traffic from various areas, directing it to arterial roads, which are high-capacity routes like Smith-Enke Road and Honeycutt Road.

Nodes stated, “Categorizing the type of roadway is essential for setting the criteria for traffic control devices.” His data collection process involves collaboration with local authorities, analysis of crash incidents, and close observation of intersection dynamics.

To gain insights, Nodes personally inspects the intersection, looking for blind spots and examining wait times across different directions. This thorough evaluation aids in crafting an effective traffic management strategy.

Understanding the area surrounding an intersection is also vital. For instance, at Butterfield Parkway and Edison Road, a nearby residential area, shopping center, and elementary school create peak times for both vehicle and pedestrian activity, underscoring the necessity for traffic improvements.

Intersections identified for new traffic signals stem from either proactive planning by the city in response to growth or suggestions from community residents. Keith Brown, the director of public works, highlighted the importance of community input, stating, “By working closely with residents and continuously monitoring traffic patterns, we ensure that our intersections remain safe and efficient for everyone.” Residents are encouraged to report any roadway concerns through the city’s official channels.