Surprise has learned that the Arizona Department of Transportation will allocate a portion of its federal stimulus share to fund the widening of the U.S. 60 (Grand Avenue) in part of Surprise, from 99^th Avenue to Loop 303.

"This is welcome news," said Surprise City Manager Randy Oliver. "Transportation improvements are priority No. 1 for our residents, and we are pleased to know that Grand Avenue will be expanded to six lanes from 99^th Avenue to Loop 303."

The scope of the $45 million U.S. 60 widening project also includes landscaping and intersection improvements. ADOT is scheduled to begin advertising for bids on the project this summer.

Preparatory work continues on the Loop 303 at the intersections with Cactus and Waddell roads. Crews are busy with utility work and other modifications before the expansion work begins in 2011 to make the 303 a six-lane freeway.  

"The 303 intersections at Cactus and Waddell will be complete in 2010, as will the Bell Road bridge over the 303," said Surprise Transportation Director Robert Maki. 

The redesigned 303 and Grand Avenue intersection is scheduled to begin in 2015.

"It is very important that ADOT is beginning the expansion of the 303 here in the Northwest Valley, where growth has long been underserved with transportation options," Oliver said. "We are pleased that the federal and state governments recognize how important it is to expand travel options for this area."