Ahh, it’s that time again. Another chance for the fun question no one usually ever wins in answering. What do you want first, the good news or the bad news? Okay, fine. The good news and the bad news is this: Arizona Route 85 roadwork is underway.
So, you see? You won. Yet let the record reflect this is a one-time only special. I will explain.
Arizona Route 85
Most people know this highway by where it takes them. It is the most common way Americans take when driving to and from Puerto Peñasco. Basically, it is one of the main roads to Rocky Point if you will. It doesn’t feature signs to remind you of the road being traveled. However, that is no big deal because most people would mistake them for thinking they were 85 miles per hour speed limit signs.
Don’t let the number fool you either. Arizona Route 85 runs more than 128 miles long. The north end is at the I-10 intersection in Buckeye, Arizona. However, many only know this road from its south end. This is at Lukeville, Arizona at the border with Sonoyta, Sonora, Mexico.
Latest Arizona Route 85 Roadwork Project
The longest piece of Arizona Route 85 comes after passing through the town of Gila Bend. This stretch is over 80 miles. It is along here you will discover the latest Arizona Route 85 Roadwork project is underway.
It began on February 5, 2024. Workers told me during traffic stoppage it would be completed by early May 2024. The 3-month project is focused on replacing the area of road between Ajo and Gila Bend.
Thomas Baldrick Travel Tips
Here is guidance on how to best manage the latest Arizona Route 85 Roadwork. It is based on my experiences of about a dozen times since the project began.
The workers are working very quickly. No, do not expect to see a lot of guys leaning on shovels.
Allow extra time and be patient. The traffic flow process is a line of vehicles in one direction go. Then the vehicles in the other direction are cleared to pass.
The delay for me has never been more than 20 minutes. Most often, it has only taken about 10 or 15 minutes.
A fun game for travelers in your vehicle is to have everyone guess how many safety cones have been knocked over before you pass through the construction zone. Either people have been sipping tequila too soon or they simply don’t know how to drive.
There is one surprise I have noticed. This Arizona Route 85 Roadwork is not just a 9 to 5 project with an hour of lunch. I have seen work being done on the weekend, and during the fleeting moments of daylight.
Remember the Most Important Rule of the Road
Puerto Peñasco will be there. The beautiful Sonoran Sun Resort will be there. Your home will be there, too. They will wait for you. So, don’t risk ruining any Rocky Point getaway. Make sure you safely get to your destination. Nothing is more important.