Case Study #7 for UTCM Report #08-14-03 "Making Mobility Improvements a Community Asset: Transportation Improvements Using Context-Sensitive Solutions"
1. Project 7
State Route 79
Sedona area, Arizona
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2. SR 179
Originally constructed during 1930s
Serves scenic red rock corridor
Tourist, recreational attraction
Issues and project needs
Congestion
Safety
Tourists stopping on road at vistas
Sight distance limitations
Limited shoulders
Few turn lanes
Diverse contexts
Urban
Rural
Suburban
Highly scenic landscapes Source: http://www.scenic179.com/ 2
3. Getting Started
Initial ADOT design opposed
Citizens
Agencies
Low public trust of ADOT
ADOT initiated CSS process in late 1990s
7 jurisdictions
Addressed issues, objectives
Provide natural vistas
Accommodate pedestrians, bikes
Maintain traffic flow during construction
Photos: Red rocks and recreation along SR 179. 3
4. CSS Process
Public outreach program
Public education forums
Multiple charrettes
Participants
Stakeholders
Public
Advocates
Environmentalists
Topics
Tours, general desired characteristics, core values
Design charrettes
Extensive public interaction
Selection of desired alternative
Design Advisory Panel
Agencies
Community volunteers
Four design sections
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5. Design Features
Dedicated turn lanes
Roundabouts
Capacity
Speed management
Bike, pedestrian paths
Scenic pullovers, overlooks
4-16 foot raised medians Source: http://www.scenic179.com/
Bifurcated lanes within Coconino National Forest
Alternating passing lanes
Construction sequencing to avoid congestion
Contractor incentives to reduce duration in central Sedona
Wildlife underpass
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