A vocal group of local residents has spurred a debate over the route of a new, seven-mile stretch of road in north Phoenix being built to access an area of Sonoran Desert preserve. Opponents claim the new thoroughfare will draw unwanted traffic to a quiet neighborhood.
The Phoenix City Council on June 14 placed construction of the contentious west third of the project on temporary hold, pending mediation. Work resumed on July 6, with the city aiming to accelerate funding for alternate routes and to recommend changes to speed limits, among other modifications, says Wylie Bearup, Phoenix street transportation director.