Wickenburg, a town known for its historical significance and western charm, is at the cusp of a transformative infrastructure expansion much needed to sustain its growth and safety. With a $26 million injection from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs law, the U.S. 93 corridor through Wickenburg is set to be upgraded to a four-lane divided highway over a 4.5-mile stretch. This project, as stated by Senator Mark Kelly, "will make a real difference for Wickenburg and take us one step closer to connecting Phoenix and Las Vegas via Interstate 11."
The investment, drawn from Kelly and Sinema’s bipartisan law, targets the conversion of the current two-lane rural road into infrastructure that promises to heighten safety and anticipate the future of Interstate 11. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, who had an instrumental role in crafting the law, highlighted the dual benefits of the improvements, stating that they will boost “economic opportunities and keep Arizona families safe while traveling,” according to Senator Mark Kelly's website.
The awarded funds originate from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant Program, which supports endeavors that enhance the movement of freight and people significantly. Beyond the roadway expansion, this project will include interstate-grade features like eight-foot shoulders, broadband conduit, and a pedestrian-friendly bridge over BNSF railway tracks. U.S. 93 will also see the construction of a two-lane frontage road and a roundabout to streamline traffic at the SR 89 junction.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has broad support across various sectors, including endorsements from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Retail Federation, and labor unions like the AFL-CIO. It also has backing from the National Education Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association. This wide support highlights the significant impact the infrastructure improvements will have on Wickenburg and Arizona.