BULLHEAD CITY — In a landmark decision, the Arizona Board of Transportation has voted unanimously to transfer control of a critical section of State Route Highway 95 to the City of Bullhead City. The July 19, 2024 vote marks the culmination of years of advocacy by local officials and opens up new possibilities for infrastructure improvements and economic growth in the region.
The transferred section of Highway 95 stretches from the Laughlin Parkway bridge to Sterling Road, a vital artery that sees daily traffic of 35,000 to 45,000 vehicles, with peak holiday periods pushing that number to 60,000. This high-traffic corridor serves as the primary connection for residents to essential services, including jobs, healthcare, and education, while also playing a crucial role in supporting the area’s commerce and tourism sectors.
Mayor Steve D’Amico, who has been at the forefront of efforts to secure this transfer, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome. “This is a game-changer for Bullhead City,” Mayor D’Amico stated. “For years, we’ve been working to address the deteriorating condition of Highway 95. Now, with direct control over this crucial stretch, we can implement the changes our community needs and deserves.”
The road to this transfer began in earnest in April 2023, when Mayor D’Amico and city staff presented a compelling case to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). Their efforts bore fruit, resulting in an initial allocation of $30 million for repaving the highway through Bullhead City and extending south through Fort Mohave and Mohave Valley. Subsequent negotiations secured an additional $8 million specifically for the construction of right-hand turn lanes, aimed at improving safety and easing congestion along the route.
State legislators played a pivotal role in championing the necessary funding through the state budget. Senator Sonny Borrelli, along with Representatives Leo Biasiucci and John Gillette, were instrumental in ensuring that the financial support matched the scale of the project’s ambition.
City Manager Toby Cotter highlighted the practical implications of the transfer. “Even before this decision, our city crews were handling many day-to-day maintenance tasks on Highway 95, from filling potholes to cleaning sidewalks,” Cotter explained. “Now, with full control, we can address issues more efficiently and prevent further deterioration. This isn’t just about maintenance; it’s about proactively shaping the future of our city’s main thoroughfare.”
The transfer of control brings with it a host of opportunities for Bullhead City. Officials have outlined several key areas where they expect to see immediate benefits:
- Streamlined Business Permitting: The city can now expedite the process for businesses looking to establish or expand along the Highway 95 corridor, potentially stimulating economic growth.
- Optimized Traffic Management: With authority over traffic light timing, the city can implement smarter traffic flow solutions, reducing congestion during peak hours.
- Beautification Projects: Plans are underway for aesthetic improvements along the highway, enhancing the visual appeal for residents and visitors alike.
- Grant Opportunities: The city is actively pursuing additional funding through grants to finance further infrastructure improvements.
- Long-term Planning: Collaboration with the Metropolitan Planning Organization is already underway, focusing on a complete reconstruction of the highway by 2035.
These initiatives are expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy. By improving traffic flow and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the highway, Bullhead City aims to create a more attractive environment for businesses and tourists alike. The streamlined permitting process could lead to an influx of new enterprises along the corridor, potentially creating jobs and boosting tax revenues.
However, the transfer is not without its challenges. The city now bears the responsibility for ongoing maintenance and future upgrades, which will require careful budgeting and resource allocation. To address these concerns, city officials are developing a comprehensive management plan that balances immediate needs with long-term sustainability.
The decision has garnered support from local business leaders as well. Sarah Thompson, President of the Bullhead City Chamber of Commerce, sees the transfer as a positive step for the business community. “A well-maintained, efficiently managed Highway 95 is crucial for our local economy,” Thompson noted. “This transfer gives our city the tools to create an environment where businesses can thrive and grow.”
Officials have expressed commitment to incorporating infrastructure elements in future upgrades, including improved stormwater management and the possibility of electric vehicle charging stations along the route.
As Bullhead City prepares to take the reins of this crucial infrastructure, residents can expect to see changes in the coming months. Initial efforts will focus on immediate maintenance needs and the implementation of the planned right-hand turn lanes. Longer-term projects, including the comprehensive reconstruction planned for 2035, will involve extensive community input and planning.
Mayor D’Amico emphasized the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of Highway 95. “This is our city’s main street, and every resident has a stake in its future,” he said. “We’ll be hosting town halls and seeking public input as we develop our plans. This transfer isn’t just about improving a road; it’s about building a better Bullhead City for all of us.”
— Jeremy Webb
