Mayor Hints at Positive Developments Before Tomorrow’s ADOT Vote

Mayor Nancy Smith addressed an audience at the Maricopa Community Center during a lunch-and-learn event, expressing optimism about the Arizona Department of Transportation’s forthcoming vote on its five-year construction plan.

Smith believes the inclusion of State Route 347 in the plan is likely.

In May, state transportation board members identified SR 347 as a strong candidate, though no commitment was made at that time. The route remains in contention, listed as a secondary priority by ADOT.

To accommodate SR 347, ADOT would need to postpone over $100 million in improvements planned for State Route 260 by two years, a consideration the department is reportedly open to.

During the luncheon, Smith praised local residents for their vocal support for addressing the route’s urgent needs. “You all came through with public comments for this five-year plan,” she noted, highlighting that a significant majority of commentary originated from Maricopa.

“How do you ignore 57% of the comments coming from Maricopa regarding SR 347?” she asked, underscoring the community’s engagement.

In a June 5 meeting, transportation board officials acknowledged receiving at least 872 comments solely about SR 347, demonstrating community interest.

To witness the outcome of the vote live, the city plans to host an ADOT watch party starting at 9 a.m. tomorrow at the Maricopa Community Center. Attendees can enjoy coffee and donuts as they await the decision.

Smith expressed hope for a celebratory reaction, stating, “I believe our efforts are going to be successful. I can’t promise anything, but we have done everything we can.”