Drivers in Yuma can finally breathe a little easier, as the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) wraps up a major widening project on US 95, ensuring smoother travels to and from the Yuma Proving Ground, according to details provided by ADOT. The recently completed project added lane in each direction throughout 3 miles from Rifle Range Road to the Wellton-Mohawk Canal bridge, also incorporating a center turning lane to improve the flow of traffic.

With a significant investment of $23.9 million, this expansion is not just about easing the commute but also about bolstering the local economy by directly supporting the military installation that stands as the top civilian employer in the area. In efforts to quickly address long-standing infrastructure deficiencies that could impact the military base's sustainability, the U.S. Department of Defense awarded a $13.3 million grant to help partially fund the project, under its Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot Program.

The enhancements included constructing a new bridge over the canal, which should facilitate a smoother drive for local and military traffic alike. Furthermore, this project wasn't the first attempt to improve US 95; ADOT had previously completed a related effort in 2022, expanding a 3.6-mile stretch between Avenue 9E and Fortuna Wash, aiming to minimize disruption for the agricultural sector and nearby communities. This strategic approach suggests a careful eye toward the various needs on this bustling stretch of roadway.

The completion of this project is as much a strategic investment into national defense as it is into local community strength. This sentiment was reflected in a statement obtained by ADOT, emphasizing the aim to support rapidly, yet safely, significant cargo and personnel movements that underpin both military operations and civilian life in the Yuma area.