NE Valley Times

Scottsdale has introduced a new pedestrian underpass on the Indian Bend Multiuse Path to enhance safety and traffic flow at the intersection of Hayden and Chaparral roads.

Mayor Lisa Borowsky stated, "One of the innovative things Scottsdale is known for is the Indian Bend Wash and this underpass makes it safer." She added, "This is an exciting project for the more than 1.5 million residents and visitors who use the city’s multiuse path system each year and with the addition of this underpass, it makes us all safer."

The project, which cost $5 million and was completed in nine months, aims to reduce conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles by diverting foot and bike traffic below Chaparral Road. This change allows longer green-light times for motorists.

Mark Melnychenko, Scottsdale’s transportation & streets director, explained that "the underpass provides uninterrupted travel for bicyclists and pedestrians along the Indian Bend Wash." He noted that "the below-grade crossing will increase safety by reducing conflicts between pedestrians and motorists at the crosswalk and will provide longer green-light times for vehicles headed east onto Chaparral Road."

The project received funding from federal grants as well as Scottsdale’s Transportation Sales Tax. It also included modifications to sidewalks and paths near the intersection.

For further details, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search for “Indian Bend Wash Underpass.”