Court Battle Over Proposed Interstate 11 Freeway in Arizona
TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) -- A new 280-mile-long freeway, Interstate 11, that would run from Nogales to Wickenburg, Arizona, is currently embroiled in a court battle. The Arizona Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration have agreed to reevaluate the plans due to environmental concerns.
The proposed route for Interstate 11 could either run west of the Tucson mountains or co-locate with I-19 and I-10, extending up to Las Vegas. This potential route has raised alarms among various groups, including the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection, who argue it could impact significant areas like Saguaro National Park-West, residential neighborhoods, and sacred tribal lands.
"People have been protesting this freeway for as long as it's been proposed," stated Carolyn Campbell, the founding executive director and board member of the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection.
Campbell emphasized that the re-evaluations are occurring because they elevated the issue to federal court. "This is a victory for the environment and a big victory for our community, but we just need to stay vigilant," she said.
She elaborated on the reasons for the lawsuit against Interstate 11, mentioning that important public land impacts were not considered. There was also a failure to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service regarding endangered species, along with disregarding public comments.
Campbell warned that construction could harm protected wildlife, including the cactus ferruginous pygmy owl and the tumamoc globeberry plant. Additionally, she expressed concerns over the impact on nearby homes. "The federal government can claim eminent domain if they deem this freeway important; they could essentially take your house," Campbell said.
As the U.S. Department of Transportation and ADOT cannot initiate the Tier 2 environmental study while the order is in effect, a 60-day public comment period will be conducted. ADOT communications issued a statement to KGUN 9 confirming that the Federal Highway Administration and ADOT will undertake a re-evaluation of the Interstate 11 Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement, which will also include a public comment period.
Meanwhile, Campbell mentioned that the coalition will continue to educate the public about the environmental implications of the proposed route.
