SE Arizona News

Santa Cruz County has received a federal grant of $6.6 million from the Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) and Neighborhood Access and Equity (NAE) Programs, as well as additional funding from various sources for the Ruby Road Bridge project. The County is dedicated to fortifying and revitalizing its infrastructure to ensure reliable transportation access for all community members.

"The grant is focused on the replacement of the Ruby Road Bridge located over Potrero Creek, which will become the sole bridge spanning both the floodplain and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) line," said an official statement from Santa Cruz County. This project aims to improve safety and provide a critical east-west connection for an underserved area.

According to the proposed timeline, design work for the project is expected to conclude in the fall of 2024, with construction commencing in the Spring of 2025 and completion estimated for mid-2026.

Key features of the Ruby Road Bridge Revitalization Project include comprehensive connectivity, inclusive infrastructure, economic stimulus, and enhanced emergency response. The new bridge will enhance accessibility for all community members, cater to various modes of transportation, stimulate economic growth, and improve emergency services efficiency.

Santa Cruz County expressed gratitude to various entities for their support in making the project a reality, including Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Senator Mark Kelly, and other congressional representatives, as well as transportation authorities at the federal and state levels. The County emphasized its commitment to transparency and community engagement throughout the project, welcoming residents to participate in shaping the future of their infrastructure.