I-8 improvement near Dateland gets under way

The Arizona Department of Transportation will begin a pavement improvement project Wednesday on Interstate 8 near Dateland. The work is expected to be completed by late summer.

Fann Contracting of Prescott was awarded the $4.96 million bid for the project, said Gabriella Kemp, ADOT spokeswoman for the Yuma area.

The project consists of removing and replacing six miles of pavement on I-8 between mileposts 66 and 72. Rubberized asphalt will be placed on the top to provide for a smooth, quiet ride, Kemp said.

The project also will include replacement of pavement markings, some guardrail repair work and shoulder buildup near Dateland at Avenue 64E/Hyder Road (Exit 67).

As construction gets under way, I-8 will be narrowed to one lane in each direction overnight for the next six weeks.

Work is scheduled to take place weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will be reduced speed limits through the work zone, and law enforcement may be on-site to monitor speeds.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time between Yuma and Gila Bend.