The proposed bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 28, Chapter 20, Article 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically Section 28-6902. This new section mandates that the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) formally request segmentation of the Interstate 11 project from Interstate 10 at the City of Casa Grande to the Town of Wickenburg within fourteen days of the bill's effective date. Additionally, it requires ADOT to conduct environmental reviews and obtain necessary federal or state authorizations within three months after federal approval of the segmentation.
Furthermore, the bill includes a series of legislative findings that emphasize the importance of advancing the Tier 2 study for the Interstate 11 corridor, citing the negative impact of a 2022 lawsuit on the project and the need for independent utility of the segments. These findings support the notion that segmenting the project aligns with federal guidelines and allows for continued planning and development of critical infrastructure without hindering ongoing litigation.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 28-6902
House Engrossed Version: 28-6902