The City of Maricopa this week released a feasibility study for the first phase of the so-called Green Road Loop, proposing to reduce future traffic hassles by reducing the number of vehicles on State Route 347.

While creating new opportunities for economic development, the Phoenix consulting firm Wilson & Company said in a report that the new road would “support increased travel demand from future development in the region and create jobs for the Gila River Indian community.” “We will support you,” he said.

The first phase would be routed along the Green Road alignment on the west side of the city, starting at McDavid Road, following Green Road, crossing the Union Pacific Railroad, and continuing north past Smith-Enke Road. become. It then turns east, passing through the Gila River Indian Community and connecting with SR 347 north of the city.

By providing an alternative roadway that attracts vehicles away from the John Wayne Parkway, the new road will create access to the Gila River Indian Community adjacent to the SR 347 corridor and guide future land use and development. This will generate income and employment for the community.

The report predicts that approximately 11,240 vehicles, including tourists and commercial trucks, will use the proposed Green Road route each day.

Consultants recommend building a “full widening” of two lanes in each direction. Other amenities such as sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping are recommended, and roads are separated by landscaped medians.

“The more than 11,000 vehicles estimated to travel along the Loop Line each day represent a potential user base that could be attracted to new businesses along the Loop Line,” Wilson consultants said. .

Commercial uses include drug stores, banks, fine dining and fast food restaurants, coffee shops and drive-thrus, gas stations, and convenience stores.