Manfredi: Your Voice Could Unlock Funding for SR 347!

The long-awaited widening of State Route 347 is potentially within reach. After years of delays, the Arizona State Transportation Board is poised to finalize its Five-Year Transportation Facilities Construction Program for FY 2026–2030, which may finally bring significant funding to the project.

This key decision could indicate a shift in focus, as an amendment now places the SR 347 widening directly in the conversation.

Three alternatives are on the table for board consideration. Notably, two options include advancing the SR 347 widening project, possibly starting as early as FY 2026.

Here’s a closer look at the options:

Alternative 1: Do Nothing for SR 347—This initial recommendation from ADOT staff leaves the current project list unchanged, excluding SR 347 and potentially delaying the project indefinitely.

Alternative 2: Fund SR 347 by Reprioritizing One Major Project—This approach would delay the SR 260 Lion Springs project, allowing funds to be redirected to SR 347 widening in FY 2026–2027 and enabling preliminary design work on other regional projects ranked fifth through eighth on the Planning to Programming list.

Alternative 3: Fund SR 347 by Delaying Three Projects—This option proposes to postpone three road preservation projects statewide, creating room for SR 347 widening in FY 2026–2027 along with design work for additional P2P projects.

Both Alternatives 2 and 3 would position SR 347 for active development, offering a chance to finally address the traffic challenges associated with this key route.

Residents are encouraged to take action. Email [email protected] to express opposition to Alternative 1, advocating instead for either Alternatives 2 or 3. Attendees can also call 602-713-7550 to voice their support for funding the SR 347 widening.

Community engagement is pivotal. Join the discussion at tomorrow’s meeting in Payson during the public comment period for Agenda Item 5, and consider requesting to speak via telephone or Webex.

Maricopa has been vocal in its support for this project for over a decade. Continued community involvement is essential; now is the time to make a difference.

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