Slayton Ranch Road was rehabilitated and reopened to traffic after an intersection across the Rio de Flag River was swept under school buses in March.
The repair cost the county $552,000 and took less than four months to complete.
According to Coconino County Public Works, the Rio de Flag Intersection Improvement Project did more than just repair roads. Considering the possibility that the Rio River will rise again and the water will interfere with the region’s drainage infrastructure.
“I’m really proud of the team’s efforts in making this project a success,” said Christopher Tressler, Public Works Manager and County Engineer. “While the washout was certainly disappointing, it was a great opportunity to work together to analyze what happened and help build better intersections for our residents.”
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The new crossing includes a 4′ x 12′ cast-in-place concrete arch structure and headwall below Slayton Ranch Road, as well as water entry and exit protection. The arch structure was selected as the best candidate to provide optimal drainage and accommodate heavy rainfall and snowmelt, based on hydrological analysis.
Coconino County officials said the project is “almost complete,” but permanent guardrails need to be installed. Temporary guardrails will remain in place until further notice.
“We would like to thank our neighbors for their patience during this project,” said District 4 superintendent Judy Bigay, whose district includes the Slayton Ranch Road area. “Construction is seldom convenient, but I think we can all agree that this beautiful new crossing was worth the wait, and I would also like to thank the construction crew for all the hard work that went into completing this project as quickly as possible.”
For more information on this project, please contact Public Works at 928-679-8300.
Sierra Ferguson can be reached at sierra.ferguson@lee.net.
