Phase 2 of the demolition of the existing bridge began Monday, Jan. 4. This is the last demolition needed to allow the remaining portion of the new Oak Creek bridge to be constructed and completely remove the old structures. See Page 1B for pictures of the demolition.

The first phase of the bridge demolition occurred in May 2009 and included special provisions for removal of contaminants, lead paint and debris. All demolition work has adhered to federal and state agency guidelines and regulations.

Last spring, the Arizona Department of Transportation and the contractor applied for all applicable permits and submitted a detailed demolition plan for the Phase I demolition to the required agencies, and the demolition was performed with no impact to Oak Creek.

The Phase 2 demolition plan was approved by several federal and state agencies [including the removal of any hazardous materials] after performing site inspections for the proposed procedures. Once Phase 2 of the demolition is complete, the final drilled shafts and abutment 2 [west end] of the new Oak Creek Bridge can be completed.

ADOT and the contractor have implemented the same measures as in Phase 1 to ensure that demolition debris is not allowed to enter Oak Creek or to contaminate the riverbed. Any materials generated from the demolition activities will be removed from the creek banks for disposal. Upon completion of the new bridge, the floodplain area affected by construction activities will be rehabilitated to a more natural condition. Planting activities associated with this rehabilitation is expected to occur mid-summer 2010.

Traffic Restricted

A 42-inch storm drain is being installed along State Route 179 between Canyon Drive and Morgan Wash. Work that will necessitate restricting traffic to one lane will occur between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. for approximately four weeks. Flaggers will direct traffic in this area.

Daytime Activities

Work progresses on both the uphill and downhill retaining walls between Canyon Drive and Moran Wash. Short duration traffic restrictions to one lane will occasionally be necessary for up to 10 minutes during wall form setting, and for equipment and truck access to the work area. Please plan your travels accordingly.

Project Office Moved

The State Route 179 project office in the Village has closed. The new office is located at the former Chevron [125 W. SR 89A] at the corner of State Route 179 and State Route 89A in Sedona. The new mailing address is P.O. Box 1511, Sedona, AZ 86339. The project hotline remains the same: (800) 529-2876.