TUCSON, Ariz. — A major transportation project designed to improve traffic flow and expand pedestrian and cyclist access on Tucson’s northwest side is nearing completion after almost three years of construction.
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The $171 million Sunset Links Project will connect River Road to Interstate 10 and Silverbell Road through a new bridge corridor that also improves access to the Chuck Huckleberry Loop trail system. Local officials said the bridge is expected to open to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians within days.
The large-scale infrastructure project includes multiple bridge structures spanning the Rillito River, Union Pacific rail lines and existing recreational trails. Officials said the project is expected to reduce congestion in nearby traffic corridors while improving safety for both commuters and recreational users.
The project was funded through a partnership involving Pima County, the City of Tucson and the Regional Transportation Authority, while the Arizona Department of Transportation oversaw construction.
Local leaders described the project as a long-needed transportation improvement for the region.
“This is a connection that we have been missing, since the 80s when we lost a bridge over the Santa Cruz River to a flood,” Tucson Mayor Regina Romero said.
Transportation officials believe the new route will help relieve congestion along Orange Grove Road and Ruthrauff Road, two heavily traveled corridors in the area. The additional roadway access is also expected to improve regional connectivity between Tucson’s northwest communities and Interstate 10.
Beyond vehicle traffic, the project includes expanded access and safety improvements for users of the Chuck Huckleberry Loop, a popular multiuse trail system used by walkers, runners and cyclists throughout the Tucson area.
“I don't like crossing roads, and this is much safer because it goes under the road,” James Moloney said. “And there is a new bridge too, so it is also safer for motorists, because they don't have to go through the wash.”
The Sunset Links Project places significant emphasis on multimodal transportation and pedestrian safety, reflecting broader infrastructure trends focused on accessibility and alternative transportation options.
The project’s design creates safer pathways for cyclists and pedestrians traveling along the Loop trail network by reducing at-grade roadway crossings and providing dedicated connections beneath major traffic routes.
For local residents and recreational users, the expanded trail access represents one of the project’s most significant benefits.
“Our mission for the last couple of months is to walk the entire Tucson loop trail,” Michelle Moloney said.
Regional transportation officials have long identified the Sunset Links corridor as a critical missing connection in Tucson’s transportation network. The completion of the bridge marks the culmination of years of planning, funding coordination and phased construction efforts.
The project also reflects growing investment in transportation infrastructure projects that combine roadway improvements with enhanced pedestrian and bicycle accessibility.
Once fully opened, the Sunset Links corridor is expected to provide improved travel efficiency, expanded trail connectivity and safer transportation options for residents across the Tucson metropolitan area.
Originally reported by Alex Medina in KVOA.
