Sonoran Corridor in Arizona now included in highway bill

U.S. Rep. Martha McSally (R-AZ) said Friday her efforts have resulted in the designation of a Sonoran Corridor in Tucson, Arizona, being included in long-term highway funding reauthorization legislation.

The project would designate a highway that connects I-19 to I-10, located south of Tucson International Airport, as a “Highway Priority Corridor.”

“This project will be a difference maker for countless families in Southern Arizona, and today’s announcement means we’re one big step closer to making it happen,” McSally said. “Once complete, the Sonoran Corridor is expected to add over $30 billion to our local economy and support nearly 200,000 jobs. It’s also key to advancing Southern Arizona as a leading trade and transportation hub. Since coming to Congress, I’ve focused on areas where we can move the ball forward and actually get things done. That’s what this designation is about, and I’ll continue to work to move it forward.”

This project is expected to have a yearly impact amounting to $32.2 billion, improving the regional economy and supporting approximately 189,000 jobs.

“This project represents thousands of jobs for our community and has the long-term potential to serve as a gateway to more aerospace, defense, and high-tech companies relocating to Tucson,” Pima County Board of Supervisors Chair Sharon Bronson said. “With the continued support of our local, state, federal and business community partners, we are well-positioned to capitalize on this great opportunity and make it a reality.”