Demolition work begins Tuesday: Motorists reminded to plan ahead for delays

Motorists traveling on Interstate 15 between Mesquite, Nevada, and St. George, Utah, along the Virgin River Gorge in the far northwest corner of Arizona, are reminded to plan ahead for construction delays up to 15 minutes, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. On Tuesday, Dec. 16 traffic is scheduled to be switched to the southbound lanes at Virgin River Bridge #6 (milepost 16) to allow for the demolition of half the existing bridge structure. While one travel lane will remain open in each direction, motorists are reminded to slow down and drive carefully through work zones and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.

The $27 million rehabilitation of Virgin River Bridge #6 began in March 2014, and is anticipated to be complete in 2016. This significant project includes the replacement of the bridge’s superstructure (girders, deck and railings), as well as widening the roadway through the narrow passage of the gorge.

Drivers should allow for up to 15 minutes extra travel time during construction, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additional delay time may occur on weekends due to heavier traffic volume and special events.
The busiest travel times through the Gorge are Friday through Sundays. With limited alternate routes due to the remote location of the I-15 Virgin River Gorge corridor, ADOT urges drivers to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions. Unscheduled restrictions or closures may occur.To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center ataz511.gov or call 5-1-1; outside Arizona, dial 1-888-411-ROAD (7623).

For more information about these projects, please visit www.azdot.gov/I15virginriver. If you have questions about the project you can email ADOT at projects@azdot.gov or call the agency’s Project Hotline at 1-855-712-8530