Interstate 11, the proposed freeway between Phoenix and Las Vegas, could become an issue in the 2016 presidential campaign. And it apparently will, if Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval has his way.
Sandoval says presidential candidates coming through the state will need to be aware of its infrastructure needs and he sees I-11 as a big one.
Damon Hodge of the Nevada Department of Transportation says the highway would likely benefit the regional economy.
“We don't want congestion on our major interstates to be a reason why either state can't effectively compete for economic opportunities,” Hodge said.
He says the Arizona Department of Transportation and his agency are expected to complete a study of the possible Interstate this summer. The study is looking at economic, trade and traffic issues for the 300-mile long freeway between Phoenix and Las Vegas.
Sandoval plans to make funding for the highway a litmus test for candidates hoping to win his state in the Nevada caucuses.