Expect closures, lane reductions as Tempe begins road construction projects

Construction on Tempe’s roads recently began after community members expressed concerns over street conditions.

In the special bond election that took place last year, Tempe residents voted overwhelmingly in favor of enhancing public safety and improving roadways.

Tempe Mayor Corey Woods says the deteriorating roads are the result of age and heavy traffic.

“You have not only Tempe residents who live here, but you also have people many times who commute to other parts of the Valley and they frankly many times will cut through the city of Tempe to get there,” he said.

Maegan Pardue is the city's public information officer.

“So we do have a variety of neighborhoods that are scheduled first. Some streets will require a full mill and paving while others may only need lighter treatments like ceiling to extend their lifespan,” she said.

Woods says that the improvements will take roughly four years to complete and residents can expect periodic road closures and lane reductions.