Construction on a sidewalk infill project has begun on La Montana Drive in front of the Bashas’ shopping center in Fountain Hills.

The project is to provide easier pedestrian-access to the shopping area downtown.

This project is part of the Town’s Active Transportation Plan, adopted by the Town Council in 2021 with input from residents. One of the key goals of the plan is to close sidewalk gaps, connect to existing shared-use paths, and improve accessibility across Fountain Hills.

As part of the Town’s ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety and mobility, the new sidewalk will span the entire frontage of the shopping center along La Montana Drive. This project includes:

*Enhancing sidewalks and driveways within the project area

*Installing curbs and gutters to improve stormwater drainage

*Adjusting utilities as necessary

*Restoring impacted landscaping

*Replacing signage and roadway striping

Construction is expected to take about two months to complete.

The new walkway is taking space from pavement on La Montana to reduce the costs of disrupting landscaping and utilities along the street, according to Public Works Director Justin Weldy.

Access to the shopping center from Palisades Boulevard will remain open throughout construction. The four driveways along La Montana Drive will be affected in phases. Two at a time will close for up to 28 days to allow for sidewalk installation.

Work will occur on weekdays between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., with periodic lane restrictions in place for safety.