PHOENIX – To enhance safety and improve traffic flow in a growing area of the Verde Valley, the Arizona Department of Transportation is set to begin upgrading nine miles of State Route 260 to four-lane divided highway between Camp Verde and Cottonwood west of Interstate 17.

The $62 million project, scheduled to start Monday, March 6, also will create seven roundabout intersections at Thousand Trails Road, Coury Drive, Cherry Creek Road, Horseshoe Bend Drive, Wilshire Road and two locations that will accommodate future development.

The work will pick up from the two miles of divided highway that stretch from the edge of Cottonwood down to Thousand Trails Road and also tie in to the roundabout construction on SR 260 east of I-17 at Industrial Drive, a busy commercial area of Camp Verde.

“Once completed, the project will provide safer and easier travel for local residents and visitors in the Verde Valley region,” said Alvin Stump, district engineer for ADOT’s Northwest District.

Crews will start just west of I-17 at Wilshire Road and will begin dirt excavation. One travel lane in each direction, the current number, will be maintained throughout the project. ADOT will work to keep drivers up to date on any necessary closures or restrictions.

The project is expected to be completed in approximately 18 months.