Lobbying the State Transportation Committee

This week I testified at the House of Representatives Transportation Committee. I brought to the committee's attention that the rural counties and rural cities were not getting the funds they need to maintain their roads.

I applaud our County Road Department for the good job that they do.

County Supervisor Association, Arizona Department of Transportation, Budget

There is a lot to report this week. I had a County Supervisor Association briefing meeting with all the County Supervisors, on how the state budget affected the counties. I had the opportunity to meet with the ADOT State Board of Transportation. I spoke to them about signage and safety in our county for cyclists. I also had the opportunity to talk to Representative Drew John on what happened at the legislature this session, and what we can possibly work on next year. Representative Drew John stood up for us in the state budget process, and came through for the county by securing funds for us.

Studying Closures on I-10

Today, we had a meeting on the issues caused when I-10 is closed and traffic is rerouted onto Hwy 70. ADOT, DPS, Town of Duncan, Towns of Safford and Thatcher, Greenlee CSO, Graham CSO, Greenlee and Graham Counties; along with Rep. Drew John. Many issues were brought to the table and discussed. I appreciate all for being there and being willing to listen and address our issues. We are all working hard to resolve the issues.

Arizona Department of Transportation

I had the opportunity to testify before the Arizona Department of Transportation State Board. I discussed the projects they have completed on highway 70 and 75. I thanked them for the help they are giving us on the Campbell Blue Bridge. I also explain to them that we are getting a lot more bicycle traffic and pointed out how important it is to keep the shoulders in good repair and clean, for the safety of the bicyclists and the motorists.

Arizona Department of Transportation

It has been a busy week. I testified at ADOT Board of Directors Meeting on several issues, one being on the safety concerns when I-10 is shut down. I was also successful on getting some key concerns of Greenlee County on the Eastern County organization agenda and discussed.

Closures on I-10

I met with officials from Arizona and New Mexico to work out solutions for our highway when I-10 is diverted through Duncan. We are working to make our highway safer for Greenlee County residents.

Working Out Problems with I-10 Closures

The ADOT district engineer, Bill Harmon, was able to come to Duncan and talk to us about our concerns when traffic is diverted through the city from I-10. We talked about safety and how to manage these types of events when they occur. Sheriff Sumner was in attendance at the meeting, and he also helped to facilitate as 24-hour police coverage for the entire county. I want to thank the Sheriff for all his work in these efforts. We may live in rural Arizona, but we should be prepared for emergencies if they ever develop, and I applaud those men and women who work to protect us each and everyday. I am thankful to work with these folks and will do my best to keep our communities and county safe!