FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A new and improved Rio de Flag crossing at Slayton Ranch Road opened to traffic today less than four months after the old crossing was washed away by heavy snowmelt flows.
The $552,000 Slayton Ranch Road – Rio De Flag Crossing Improvement Project features an upsized drainage structure to better accommodate future flows in the Rio. The project, which broke ground in early May, includes a cast-in-place concrete arch structure under Slayton Ranch Road along with headwalls and water inlet and outlet protection.
The Coconino County Public Works Engineering Division and County contractors began working on a plan to repair the crossing almost immediately after the washout occurred on March 24, 2023. Based on hydrological analysis, the team determined that the newly installed 4’x12’ concrete arch was the optimal drainage structure for the crossing.
“I’m really proud of the team effort that made this project a success,” said Public Works Director and County Engineer Christopher Tressler. “Although the washout was certainly unfortunate, it did provide us with a great opportunity to work together to analyze what happened and then expedite construction of a better crossing for residents.”
“I’d like to thank everyone in the neighborhood for their patience during this project,” said District 4 Supervisor Judy Begay, whose district includes the Slayton Ranch Road area. “Construction is rarely convenient, but I think we can agree that this beautiful new crossing was worth the wait. I’d also like to thank the construction crews for all of their hard work, which was necessary to complete this project as soon as possible.”
Although the Slayton Ranch Road – Rio De Flag Crossing Improvement Project is substantially completed, temporary guardrails will remain in place at the crossing until the permanent guardrail is installed. Motorists are asked to watch their speed and proceed with caution was traveling over the new crossing.
For more information about this project please contact Public Works at 928-679-8300.