SABINO CANYON ROAD CONSTRUCTION

Temporary Closure of Upper Stretch of Road

TUCSON, AZ  (June 1, 2010) – The road into Upper Sabino Canyon, located on the Coronado National Forest, Santa Catalina Ranger District, is undergoing construction at Shuttle Stop #9.  The road is temporarily closed to public use above Shuttle Stop #8 for construction access and visitor safety.

The work is being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment and Act to improve visitor experiences at Shuttle Stop #9.  Existing sidewalks have been removed, and new concrete sidewalks bordered by masonry walls and bench seats are being constructed. The project includes revegetation of the site including replanting of young mesquite trees for future shade.

The tram operated by Sabino Canyon Tours, Inc. has shortened the route into Upper Sabino, and is turning around at Shuttle Stop #7.  The road above Shuttle Stop #8 is closed to all use including cyclists and pedestrians.  Hikers wishing to continue up the canyon beyond Shuttle Stop #9 must use the trail alongside Sabino Creek. The connector trail from Shuttle Stop #9 to the Phoneline Trail is also closed and hikers are being routed around the construction area.

The construction closure is expected to last 30 days, beginning June 1.  The Santa Catalina Ranger District requests visitors to Sabino Canyon observe the closure for public safety reasons due to the need for heavy equipment to access the steep grade between Shuttle Stops #8 and #9.

For more information, please contact the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center at (520) 749-8700 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays, and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekends and holidays.

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