Scottsdale begins Thomas Road sewer infrastructure improvements ahead of major corridor reconstruction

Scottsdale has begun sewer infrastructure improvements along Thomas Road, preparing the corridor for a comprehensive roadway reconstruction project while increasing the reliability and capacity of the city's wastewater system.

The approximately $2.5 million sewer project includes construction of a new 8-inch parallel sewer line and rehabilitation of existing sewer manholes along Thomas Road. Work is expected to continue through late October 2026.

The project includes:

• Construction of approximately 1,200 feet of new 8-inch sewer main between 68th Street and the area near Diamante Village (6565 E. Thomas Road).
• Rehabilitation of approximately 16 existing sewer manholes from just west of 64th Street to just west of 73rd Street.

The new sewer line will provide additional wastewater capacity to accommodate future development while maintaining reliable service for existing customers. The manhole rehabilitation work will strengthen aging infrastructure, reduce the risk of future failures and help extend the life of the city's sewer system. The sewer line work will be followed by the construction of a new waterline which will begin in late 2026.

The sewer and water improvements are being completed ahead of a separate, approximately $24.4 million capital improvement project that will reconstruct Thomas Road between 56th and 73rd streets. The corridor improvements will address long-term roadway maintenance needs while replacing and upgrading aging water and sewer infrastructure beneath the roadway.

Planned improvements include:

• Complete reconstruction of the roadway pavement.
• Construction of a new right-turn lane at Thomas Road and 68th Street.
• Replacement of outdated traffic signals.
• Grading and drainage improvements.
• Installation of ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps.
• Restoration of lane striping to the current roadway configuration.

A geotechnical evaluation determined this section of Thomas Road has reached the point where full reconstruction is needed rather than additional maintenance.

Completing the underground utility work before reconstructing the roadway will avoid cutting into newly paved streets later, minimizing future construction impacts, extending the life of the new pavement and making efficient use of taxpayer resources.

The larger Thomas Road reconstruction project is funded through a $17.36 million federal grant and $7.02 million in local transportation funding that provides the required local match. The sewer improvements are funded separately through the city’s Infrastructure Improvement Plan using development impact fees for the new sewer line and sewer utility rates for manhole rehabilitation.

Construction on the sewer project will be performed by Achen Gardner. Residents and motorists can expect temporary lane restrictions, construction equipment and periodic traffic adjustments within the work zone. Access to homes and businesses will be maintained throughout construction.

Motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling through the area and allow additional travel time while work is underway.