After years of community pressure and safety concerns, State Route 347 near the city of Maricopa is set to be widened. Here’s what investors and landlords in Pinal and Maricopa counties should know:
- Project Scope: 7.3-mile widening in Pinal County, from Maricopa to Riggs Road.
- Cost: $137 million; includes $50 million from a newly approved city sales tax in Maricopa.
- Timeline: Construction starts in late 2026 or 2027; Maricopa County portion to follow in 2031.
- Improvements: One additional lane each direction, bridge widenings, safer intersections.
- Traffic Stats: Nearly 50,000 drivers use SR 347 daily, with an accident almost every day.
- Why It Matters: 80% of Maricopa residents commute to the Phoenix area, making SR 347 essential.
Investor Implications
- Infrastructure upgrades support long-term housing and rental demand.
- Faster commute times = higher appeal for renters and owner-occupants.
- Long-overdue improvements could reduce tenant churn due to safety concerns.