A second project to widen U.S. 60 (Grand Avenue), this time between 99th Ave. and Loop 303 in the northwest Valley, started in January. Crews will widen Grand by adding third lanes in each direction, along with intersection improvements to help with traffic flow. The $18-million project, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is being built by Markham Contracting Co. Inc. of Phoenix and is scheduled for completion in fall 2011. The project was originally estimated to cost $45 million, but competitive bidding lowered the actual cost, freeing funds for use on other highway improvements in Maricopa County.

Crews will widen Grand Avenue along the existing center median while also adding turn lanes, improved traffic signals, signs and crosswalks. Some of the project’s enhancements, including sign lettering, are designed with senior drivers in mind. Crews also will add new sound walls in three locations along the south side of Grand Avenue between 99th and 111th avenues. Rubberized asphalt will be used on both new and existing lanes.