Senate Republicans in Arizona are working to ensure that funding for improvements to State Route 347 remains protected as lawmakers prepare for possible budget cuts in the next legislative session. The highway is a vital link for Maricopa residents, with more than three-quarters of households depending on it for daily commutes.
State Route 347 has been the main route connecting Maricopa to the Phoenix metropolitan area for decades. Since its last expansion in the late 1990s, traffic has increased significantly due to population growth—from about 1,500 residents in 2003 to over 80,000 today. The corridor has experienced nearly 1,000 crashes in recent years, including more than 300 at the Riggs Road intersection. Planned upgrades include widening the entire corridor, building a new overpass at Riggs Road, and making other intersection improvements. These projects are supported by $50 million from local sources, legislative appropriations, and Proposition 479 funds. Construction on the Pinal County segment is expected to begin in late 2026.
“SR 347 is essential for daily life in Maricopa; we cannot afford any delays when lives are at stake,” said Chairman David Farnsworth. “The Legislature has already shown its commitment by allocating funds in the budget, and we must work to protect that investment to ensure these projects are completed. Every improvement we make on this corridor brings us closer to preventing tragedies, supporting economic growth, and ensuring that Arizona families can travel safely for generations to come.”
President Pro Tempore T.J. Shope added: “The funding secured for the long-overdue improvements to SR 347 is essential—it is a lifeline. Every dollar represents a commitment to saving lives, strengthening our economy, and finally providing our community with the safe infrastructure it deserves. As budget discussions approach, we must not allow these critical investments to be cut. Protecting this funding is not only a sensible fiscal policy; it is a moral obligation to every driver who relies on this corridor to get home safely.”
City of Maricopa Mayor Nancy Smith commented: “Things are progressing nicely for the SR 347 projects since the approval to place it in the state’s Five-Year Program in June. The design is nearing completion, the project is out for bid, and construction will start soon. It is critical to keep all funding in place to allow this safety and capacity project to stay on track. We are incredibly appreciative of Senator Farnsworth’s attention to the importance of this project.”
Warren Petersen was elected as a Republican state senator representing Arizona’s 14th Senate District in 2023.
