The one-lane Babocomari Bridge was constructed in 1922. (Arizona Department of Transportation photo)

Display boards outlining the Babocomari Creek Bridge project in Elgin are now available on the Arizona Department of Transportation website.

The series of 11 boards describes the need for the project and the timeline of events leading to the current design submittal, which has been deferred pending the completion of a Section 4(f) review. A Section 4(f) review is an environmental evaluation required by the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure transportation projects avoid or minimize harm to public parks, recreation areas, wildlife refuges and historic sites.

The display boards detail the four alternatives being considered:

  • Option 1: Do nothing
  • Option 2: Construct a new bridge at a new location/alignment
  • Option 3: Rehabilitate existing bridge
  • Option 4: Construct a new bridge at the current bridge’s location

In December 2024 Santa Cruz County received $3.9 million of federal funds through the Off-System Bridge Program for bridge replacement. Since then, questions have arisen both on the condition of the bridge and its historical significance.

Monies for this project must be authorized by ADOT by September 2027. If they are not, they will be returned to the federal government.