News Source: City of Maricopa
Maricopa, AZ – A major milestone has been reached for the City of Maricopa, as today’s bipartisan Arizona State budget includes full funding for the long-awaited improvements to the State Route 347 (SR347) commuting corridor, which is a transformational investment in safety and economic growth.
The budget, which received its final Senate approval this morning before heading to the Governor’s desk for signature, includes critical supplemental funding for legislative projects along the corridor, most notably, the Riggs Road Traffic Interchange (TI). This funding, when combined with previous and future legislative appropriations already enacted, State Transportation Board commitments, contributions from the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), Pinal County, and the City of Maricopa itself, will provide full funding for the entire SR347 corridor for the first time in history.
“This is a truly historic moment for the City of Maricopa. SR347 is our lifeline. It connects our residents to jobs, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities across the region,” said City Manager Benjamin Bitter.
The fully funded SR347 corridor represents years of planning, collaboration, and advocacy. With these funds secured, the city can now move forward confidently with a complete transformation of the SR347 into a safer, more efficient, and more reliable transportation route, easing congestion, improving safety, and fostering continued economic development.
“We are incredibly grateful to our LD16 legislators. The leadership and tenacity of Senator T.J. Shope and Representatives Teresa Martinez and Chris Lopez helped make this possible. We’d also like to thank every resident who sent emails, made calls, and stood with us to advocate for this corridor. Today’s budget reflects what is possible when communities and lawmakers work together to invest in our future,” said Mayor Nancy Smith.
In addition to transportation infrastructure, the budget includes meaningful investments in public safety, including $200,000 in additional funding for both the Maricopa Police Department and Maricopa Fire/Medical Department.
“This budget shows a real commitment to the men and women who are dedicated to keeping our communities safe, and it sends the message that their service and the risks they take every day for others are valued,” said Fire/Medical Chief Brad Pitassi.
Police Chief Mark Goodman echoed the sentiment: “Supporting our officers through additional funding strengthens our ability to recruit, retain, and protect the people of Maricopa every day.”
The City of Maricopa extends sincere thanks to all partners involved, especially its residents and local leaders, who played a key role in making this milestone possible.
