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ARF- 3847

Regular Agenda Item 3. F.

Regular BOS Meeting

Meeting Date:	07/05/2016
Submitted For:	Steve Sanders
Submitted By:	Shannon Boyer, Executive Administrative Asst.
Department:	Public Works

Information

Request/Subject

Resolution No. 16-07-02 authorizing staff to submit an application to the Central Federal Lands Highway Division (CFLHD) of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for the construction of a bridge over Tonto Creek in Tonto Basin, AZ.

Background Information

In April 2016, the CFLHD issued a call for projects for the Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP). The transportation facilities owned or maintained by the State or local entity that provides access to, are adjacent to, or are located within Federal lands with an emphasis on high-use recreation sites or federal economic generators. Projects may include engineering, rehabilitation, restoration, construction, reconstruction, transportation planning, and research of the eligible transportation facility. A local match of 5.7% is required if the project is funded. If successful the match will come from the County’s ½ cent Transportation Excise Tax.

The Tonto Creek Bridge Project will construct a bridge across Tonto Creek and improve the existing roadway in Tonto Basin. The County and the residents of Tonto Basin have been working to make this project a reality since the early 1980s. The total cost of the project is $17.86 million. If successful Gila County will provide a 5.7% match totaling $1.02 million.

Evaluation

Three existing at-grade dirt road crossings currently serve as the only means for crossing Tonto Creek in the project area—Greenback Valley Road (FR 71), Bar-X Road (FR 470), and A-Cross Road (FR 60). A bridge eliminates two of these at-grade dirt crossings from the County road system providing critical all-weather access to the Tonto Basin region. The project will enrich the quality of life for residents of Tonto Basin through improved safety along the road and access for first responders; efficiency of travel; access to educational institutions, businesses, and healthcare facilities; and enhanced recreational opportunities.

Conclusion

It is in the best interest of the County to submit an application for funding to construct a bridge over Tonto Creek in Tonto Basin.

Recommendation

It is the recommendation of the Public Works Division Director that the Board of Supervisors adopt Resolution No. 16-07-02, which authorizes staff submit an application to the Federal Lands Access Program to construct a bridge over Tonto Creek in Tonto Basin.

Suggested Motion

Information/Discussion/Action to adopt Resolution No. 16-07-02 authorizing staff to submit an application to the Central Federal Lands Highway Division of the Federal Highway Administration to construct a bridge over Tonto Creek in Tonto Basin. (Steve Sanders)

Attachments
Resolution No. 16-07-02