When roads cross waterways, our top concerns are safety, cost and maintenance.
Crossing over a waterway generally requires infrastructure. Small ditches can be crossed with culverts. Rivers that flow high all the time require bridges.
Roads that cross low-flowing and often dry waterways can take advantage of what is called a low-water crossing. A common rural way of life, these are seen throughout Arizona’s flash flood areas.
Low-water crossings are designed to handle heavy surges of storm runoff while keeping costs manageable. Unlike bridges, which cost millions, low-water crossings use reinforced concrete to allow water to flow over the roadway and recede naturally. They’re durable, low-maintenance and effective.
Designed to flow over the structure, temporary closures occur during high-flow times. After storms, debris can be cleared from the crossing, leaving an intact structure ready for the next surge.
Drivers should never attempt to drive through swift moving water. Not only are motorists responsible for their own safety, Arizona Revised Statute §28-910, Arizona’s “stupid motorist” law, holds drivers liable for the cost of their rescue if they become stranded after entering a flooded road.
I want to personally thank Public Work’s Supervisor Jade Peddie and the Public Works crew for your grit and commitment in managing the Agua Fria River crossing. Balancing safety and convenience isn’t easy, but you do it with quiet strength and professionalism. Your work keeps this community running through rain, shine or flood.
