Manfredi Urges Action: Reach Out to ADOT by Friday, May 23rd

As a city council member and small business owner in Maricopa, I urge the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to prioritize the expansion of State Route 347 (SR 347) in its FY 2026–2030 Five-Year Transportation Facilities Construction Program.

SR 347 serves as a crucial artery for our community, yet it presents significant safety and economic challenges. As residents, we must unite to address these issues.

SR 347 is the main route for local residents, businesses, and emergency services. Originally a two-lane highway, it now supports over 58,000 vehicles daily, leading to congestion and a concerning number of accidents. Immediate action is necessary.

Pinal County supervisors, spearheaded by Maricopa’s Rich Vitiello, are backing the widening project with a $20 million commitment. Additionally, Maricopa County voters approved Proposition 479 in 2024, which extends a half-cent sales tax that allocates around $90 million for transportation projects, including improvements to SR 347. Local residents have also pledged $30 million. We now need ADOT to step up.

ADOT has started various initiatives along the SR 347 corridor, including the Riggs Road Traffic Interchange. This project, which is nearing the final design phase, aims to alleviate traffic congestion by constructing a new bridge that separates SR 347 from Riggs Road. Additional intersection improvements are also in the works, though comprehensive widening to six lanes is essential for long-term effectiveness.

Incorporating the SR 347 widening project into ADOT’s Five-Year Program goes beyond infrastructure; it’s vital for ensuring the safety and prosperity of our residents. I encourage community members to submit their support through ADOT’s public comment form before the May 23, 2025, deadline.

By coming together, we can advocate for the crucial upgrades needed for SR 347, fostering a safer and more efficient transportation route that will support Maricopa’s growth and enhance life for all residents.

This is a letter to the editor. Vincent Manfredi is a Maricopa City Council member and owner of InMaricopa.