Crews will soon begin the final work needed to restore the water transmission line that burst and flooded the U.S. 60 in May. This will require an approximate three-week closing of the eastbound U.S. 60 ramp to the southbound Loop 101 and the eastbound U.S. 60 off-ramp at McClintock Drive.
Previous construction restored the U.S. 60 for motorists after flooding. Scheduled construction allows crews to fully repair the water transmission line. Crews will repair the pipe as well as replace any removed paving and striping along the affected off-ramps.
This should conclude all repair work associated with the May 7 water transmission line break.
“We appreciate the patience and support of our residents, workforce and commuters as we restore the water transmission line. With safety as the top priority, we will complete this construction as soon as possible,” said Mark Weber, Water Engineering Manager.
Road closure details
Beginning Oct. 2, the eastbound U.S. 60 ramp to the southbound Loop 101 and the eastbound U.S. 60 off-ramp to McClintock Drive will both be closed until approximately Oct. 28.
One eastbound lane on U.S. 60 from McClintock Drive to Loop 101 will be closed only on Oct. 2 to give crews an opportunity to set up barricades and protect the worksite. The lane will re-open on Oct. 3 prior to morning rush hour.
Some lanes of McClintock Drive near U.S. 60 have been closed since the incident for repair work. As of today, all vehicle lanes are open. However; northbound McClintock Drive lanes may have intermittent restrictions during the final pipe testing anticipated to occur Oct. 19-28.
Background
On May 7, a city water transmission line burst, causing flooding and damage to U.S. 60 in both directions between McClintock Drive and Loop 101. The 50-year-old pipe, which runs north and south of the U.S. 60, had been expected to last 75 years. Arizona Department of Transportation and City of Tempe experts worked together to repair the damage as quickly as possible and get motorists back on the freeway.
Since then, crews have carefully examined the water line under the freeway. Additional preventative repairs are needed on the portion of the line that is just south of the freeway. That makes the new closures necessary.
Water line breaks are an unfortunate occurrence for every water utility. Over the last year, the City of Tempe initiated its plan to inspect the city’s water transmission system. This systematic process is continuing throughout the community to ensure that our infrastructure remains in good working condition.
Freeway-related questions: please call 480-350-4311 or email 311@tempe.gov.
Media contact: Kris Baxter-Ging 480-250-5198
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