Gov. Ducey announces multi-million dollar investment for U.S. 95 upgrades

Thursday, the Arizona governor’s office announced a plan to invest $4.6-billion dollars into Arizona’s highways, bridges, and airports.

Governor Doug Ducey (R) said Arizona has become one of the fastest-growing states in the nation.

To keep up with the growth, he plans to invest billions of dollars to make improvements in rural communities over the next five years.

Yuma is expected to receive $28-million for improvements on U.S. 95, the vital roadway leading out to Yuma Proving Ground.

A three-mile stretch of the busy highway will be increased from two lanes to five lanes, including a center turning lane.

The goal is to improve rush-hour traffic.

The City of Yuma’s concern was whether the state would dip into the city’s Highway User Revenue Fund ( HURF ).

The governor confirmed there’s no need to worry, saying, ” All of Arizona’s infrastructure and public safety investments are being made without sweeping a single dime of HURF money to the Arizona Department of Public Safety. This is the first time we can say that since 2002. ”

The preliminary plan sets the U.S. 95 project to begin in 2020 and finish up in about three years.

This year’s budget will also invest $3-million into expanding reliable high-speed internet to schools, libraries, and businesses in underserved communities.

There’s an additional $10-million for grants to improve local airports on a need-basis.