News Source: City of Maricopa
Maricopa, AZ – The wait is over.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Friday approved its updated Five-Year Transportation Facilities Construction Program, and among the highlights: the long-anticipated widening of State Route 347 is officially in the plan!
This decision comes just weeks after the Maricopa City Council voted to implement a half-cent sales tax, creating a dedicated local funding stream to support regional transportation projects. That vote, followed by a formal intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with ADOT, signaled a strong local commitment to help advance the project — and it paid off.
“This is a generational win for Maricopa,” said Mayor Nancy Smith. “We’ve said for years that SR 347 is more than a road, it’s a lifeline. Today, thanks to the tireless advocacy of our legislator, county and regional partners, residents and groups like 347facts.com, The Be Awesome Youth Coalition, and so many more, we’ve moved from not even being considered to joining the plan right now.”
The approved ADOT plan now includes a fully funded project to widen SR 347, enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and supporting future growth for Maricopa residents and regional commuters alike. With design already underway, the plan allocated the final portion of funding for construction to begin.
Councilmembers, city staff, and community members traveled to Payson to witness the decision in person, celebrating a milestone nearly two decades in the making. Meanwhile, hundreds more Maricopa residents joined virtually or attended a local watch party, turning the moment into a true citywide celebration.
“This project has always been about the people of Maricopa,” said Councilmember Vincent Manfredi. “We pushed forward with bold solutions, like creating our own funding source, because waiting wasn’t an option. This shows what’s possible when a community stands together.”
Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr added, “The inclusion of SR 347 widening in ADOT’s five-year plan is a monumental step forward for our community — a reflection of years of advocacy, partnership, and persistence. But progress is not a finish line — it’s a path. Today we celebrate, and tomorrow we continue the work, because Maricopa’s future depends on our continued commitment to moving forward.”
The City will continue to work closely with ADOT to support next steps, including detailed project planning, public input opportunities, and eventual construction timelines.
Residents can stay up to date on SR 347 progress and other roadway projects by visiting www.Maricopa-AZ.gov/betterroads.
