Staff Reports | Community Updates
Scottsdale has begun sewer infrastructure improvements along Thomas Road as part of a broader effort to prepare the corridor for a future roadway reconstruction project and enhance the city’s wastewater system.
The approximately $2.5 million sewer project includes construction of a new 8-inch parallel sewer line and rehabilitation of existing sewer manholes along Thomas Road. Construction is expected to continue through late October 2026, according to a press release.
The project includes:
- Construction of approximately 1,200 feet of new 8-inch sewer main between 68th Street and the area near Diamante Village, 6565 E. Thomas Road.
- Rehabilitation of approximately 16 existing sewer manholes from just west of 64th Street to just west of 73rd Street.
The new sewer line is designed to provide additional wastewater capacity for future development while maintaining service for existing customers.
Manhole rehabilitation work is intended to strengthen aging infrastructure, reduce the risk of failures and extend the service life of the city’s sewer system. Construction of a new waterline is expected to begin in late 2026 following completion of the sewer work.
The sewer and water infrastructure projects are being completed ahead of a separate, approximately $24.4 million capital improvement project that will reconstruct Thomas Road between 56th and 73rd streets. The future corridor project will address roadway maintenance needs while replacing and upgrading aging utility infrastructure beneath the roadway.
Planned roadway improvements include:
- Complete reconstruction of roadway pavement.
- Construction of a new right-turn lane at Thomas Road and 68th Street.
- Replacement of traffic signals.
- Grading and drainage improvements.
- Installation of ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps.
- Restoration of lane striping to the current roadway configuration.
A geotechnical evaluation found that this section of Thomas Road has reached a point where full reconstruction is needed rather than additional maintenance.
Completing underground utility improvements before roadway reconstruction will help avoid future cuts into newly paved streets, reduce future construction impacts and extend the life of the new pavement while making efficient use of public resources.
The larger Thomas Road reconstruction project is funded through a $17.36 million federal grant and $7.02 million in local transportation funding that will serve as the required local match. The sewer improvements are funded separately through the city’s Infrastructure Improvement Plan, using development impact fees for the new sewer line and sewer utility rates for manhole rehabilitation.
Construction is being performed by Achen Gardner. Residents and motorists can expect temporary lane restrictions, construction equipment and periodic traffic adjustments within the work zone. Access to homes and businesses will be maintained throughout construction.
Motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling through the area and allow additional travel time while work is underway.
