Payson Roundup

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Central Federal Lands Highway Division (CFLHD) is hosting an open house at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 14 at Julia Randall Elementary School to discuss a proposed multi-bridge replacement/rehabilitation project along National Forest System Road 64 /Forest Highway 51 (also referred to as Control Road) in the Tonto National Forest, north of Payson.

The FHWA/CFLHD is soliciting public comment on this project until Sept. 30.  

A study of U.S. Forest Service bridges was completed in 2009, and concluded that the seven bridges are load-restricted and approaching the limits of their original design life.

Additionally, the bridges are too narrow to accommodate simultaneous two-way traffic and are not rated to carry heavier, modern vehicles, which is a safety issue.

The bridges cross Webber Creek, Bonita Creek, Moore Creek, Perley Creek, Lewis Creek, Ellison Creek and Roberts Draw.

The project also includes the low water crossing on the Control Road in Tonto Village. This crossing is impassable during and following large precipitation events or heavy snowmelt.

The anticipated construction may begin as early as spring 2011. If you are unable to attend the open house, you can send comments or questions no later than Sept. 30, to Tom Puto, project manager, by mail or e-mail: FHWA-CFLHD, 12300 W. Dakota Ave. Lakewood, CO 80228, or tom.puto@dot.gov.