County secures $4.4M for Davis Road drainage upgrades and future expansion plans

Cochise County officials are moving forward with significant infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing road safety and drainage in the region. During a recent Engineering and Natural Resources Work Session, the county discussed ongoing projects on Davis Road, which have been in development since 2003.

The county has secured $2.8 million from Senator Kelly's discretionary funds and plans to utilize an additional $3.6 million from county Highway User Revenue Fund (HEERF) resources to address persistent drainage issues that have led to frequent road closures during monsoon seasons. The project, which includes upgrades to culverts and bridge structures, is currently in the design phase, with construction anticipated to begin by the end of this calendar year.

Key improvements will be made at Milepost 5 and Milepost 13, locations notorious for flooding and traffic disruptions. The project will also involve slight realignments to improve safety, particularly in areas where large vehicles have previously overturned. However, it is important to note that this initiative does not include plans for expanding the road to a four-lane highway; the focus remains on enhancing drainage and safety features.

In addition to the Davis Road project, the county is pursuing a RAISE grant of over $2 million to conduct a study and develop preliminary engineering plans for a potential future expansion of the road from Highway 80 to Central. This project is part of a broader vision to accommodate increasing traffic, which currently sees over a thousand vehicles daily. The estimated cost for future construction could reach $73 million, contingent on securing additional funding.

The meeting also highlighted the Douglas Port of Entry connector project, which aims to improve access from the port to Highway 80. Although a grant application for this project was not successful, the county has allocated $5 million for design work, with ADOT overseeing the project.

These infrastructure initiatives reflect Cochise County's commitment to improving transportation safety and efficiency, addressing long-standing issues, and preparing for future growth. As these projects progress, they are expected to significantly enhance the quality of life for residents and travelers alike.