The PAG Loop Road Study was initiated in late 2004 to evaluate the future need for development of high capacity corridors in the PAG region. The study pushes the planning horizon beyond the year 2030 to a future time when the total population of the region will approach 2 million. This very long range forecast was necessary in order to identify and protect the corridors and rights-of-way that will be needed to service our future populations.
The study consultant is Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. working out of their Tucson office. The study is being overseen by a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) consisting of representatives from each of the area local governments and other stakeholders such as the State Lands Department and Tucson Airport Authority.
The study objectives included an objective evaluation of several routes and corridors that have historically been discussed for future development as major, high capacity carriers. Feasibility is to be evaluated on the basis of need, physical and political constraints, and cost. In addition, the study includes an evaluation of the importance of each corridor from a state highway perspective to determine the liklihood of securing state assistance for their future development.
It is important to note that the corridors being evaluated are highly general in nature and not specific alignments. No conclusions can or ought to be made concerning future impacts on specific properties. More precise alignments which will actually locate any future roadways will require additional studies of a more detailed nature.
It is currently expected that the study will be completed by the end of 2006. Two intermediate reports have been completed and are available at the links below.
Working Paper #1 contains information about the study's outline and purpose, and a preliminary inventory of existing conditions.
Working Paper #2 contains an evaluation of developing each of the corridors as State Highways.
Working Paper #3 contains preliminary analysis and recommendations.
For more information, contact Don Freeman, project manager at (520) 792-1093. |