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Regional Boards => Pacific Southwest => Topic started by: roadfro on March 27, 2015, 11:59:24 AM

Title: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on March 27, 2015, 11:59:24 AM
Just saw a flier posted to NDOT's Facebook page. The groundbreaking ceremony for construction of the  Boulder City Bypass is set for April 6 at 10am.

Long planned to alleviate US 93 traffic through Boulder City, the bypass is going to be the second new section of future I-11 to be constructed (following the Hoover Dam bypass).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: myosh_tino on March 27, 2015, 02:02:27 PM
IIRC, the Boulder City Bypass is a two-phase project.  Is the groundbreaking on April 6th for Phase 1 from the current end of the I-515 freeway to US 95 or for the entire bypass?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on March 27, 2015, 05:14:27 PM
Quote from: myosh_tino on March 27, 2015, 02:02:27 PM
IIRC, the Boulder City Bypass is a two-phase project.  Is the groundbreaking on April 6th for Phase 1 from the current end of the I-515 freeway to US 95 or for the entire bypass?

You recall correctly. Unfortunately, the flier didn't say... I was on mobile at the time and was getting on a plane, so couldn't research it–I had the same question.

Now that I've had a chance to look into it, I haven't found anything specifying whether the groundbreaking is for Phase 1 or Phase 2 (the Las Vegas traffic media outlets I frequent haven't picked up this story yet). My guess is it might be for the whole project: NDOT is building Phase 1, RTC is building Phase 2–both logos are on the flyer. And through various steps and issues along the way, it seems like the timelines for both phases have been gradually moving closer together (especially once RTC decided to pick up the tab for Phase 2).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Chris on April 07, 2015, 04:21:06 AM
The groundbreaking ceremony seems to be for the entire Boulder City bypass.

http://www.rtcsnv.com/press-archive/rtc-ndot-federal-state-local-leaders-officially-sign-318m-11-project/

QuoteConstruction of the I-11 project will occur in two simultaneous phases coordinated by the RTC and NDOT beginning this spring. The RTC will construct approximately 12.5 miles from I-515 to U.S. 93 near the new Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge. NDOT will build 2.5 miles of roadway improvements from I-515 to U.S. 95.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: swbrotha100 on April 08, 2015, 02:01:22 PM
Glad to see the Nevada link to I-11 finally starting.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on April 09, 2015, 11:20:00 AM
Quote from: swbrotha100 on April 08, 2015, 02:01:22 PM
Glad to see the Nevada link to I-11 finally starting.

I'm glad to see it finally starting too. The Boulder City Bypass has been talked about and on the planning books well before I-11 was even a concept...probably 15 years or more.

I'd still maintain that, had one of the through-town freeway alternatives been selected, this might have been built by now...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on April 09, 2015, 11:57:22 AM
What an essential gap to fill in!  Glad the governing powers got off the schneid.  I wonder what year the Bypass will be completed?

Rick
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: andy3175 on August 13, 2015, 12:21:56 AM
There's are a couple of project webpages for the Boulder City Bypass. NDOT's page for phase 1 (generally around the US 93 and US 95 interchange) is notable for having an I-11 shield on the main page:

http://www.nevadadot.com/Micro-Sites/BoulderCityBypass/The_Boulder_City_Bypass.aspx

There's a second project webpage for the second phase of the bypass (12.5 miles), which is being built by Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada or RTC.

http://i-11nv.com/

This site offers a completion date both phases of the bypass project of October 2018.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: halork on December 14, 2015, 06:54:23 AM
Quote from: andy3175 on August 13, 2015, 12:21:56 AM
There's a second project webpage for the second phase of the bypass (12.5 miles), which is being built by Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada or RTC.

http://i-11nv.com/

This site offers a completion date both phases of the bypass project of October 2018.

As well as some very nice web cams.  :cool:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on December 14, 2015, 04:13:43 PM
Will there be Interstate 11 signs installed when the rest of the bypass opens?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on December 15, 2015, 08:28:24 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on December 14, 2015, 04:13:43 PM
Will there be Interstate 11 signs installed when the rest of the bypass opens?

Possibly. NDOT has approval (I forget if it was from AASHTO, FHWA, or both) for I-11 from the Nevada/Arizona state line to the I-215 interchange. Given that part of that overlaps I-515 (but might not be the final alignment of I-11), it's anybody's guess.

I actually think it would be better for them not to sign the Boulder City Bypass as I-11 until one side of it connects on the permanent alignment to a 2DI. (Or, in compromise, only sign it "Future I-11" until that condition is met.)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on July 31, 2016, 06:02:38 AM
BUMP - to share this article covering an update on I-11 construction: Boulder City Bypass taking shape (http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/traffic-transportation/boulder-city-bypass-taking-shape), Las Vegas Review Journal, 7/30/2016 (includes several construction photos).

QuoteNow more than a year into construction, concrete bridges are taking shape along the 15-mile stretch of dirt road that's being transformed into Interstate 11. Builders say the project is on pace to open by fall 2018.

When completed, the four-lane highway is expected to reduce travel times up to 30 minutes between Henderson's southern border and the O'Callaghan-Tillman Bridge downstream from Hoover Dam, all while looping past Boulder City, a small town with roughly 15,000 residents.

There's also this little tidbit about Railroad Pass:
QuoteNearby, crews are also building a 360-foot-long steel truss bridge over I-11, aimed at reconnecting the railroad tracks between Henderson and Boulder City. The transportation department paved over a section of the tracks at U.S. Highway 93 near Railroad Pass in 1998, which was considered dangerous at the time, Illia said.

I've always thought it interesting that the railroad crossing signals and signs are still there (marked as exempt), but there's no tracks. I'm guessing with the I-515 freeway extension terminating just north of here by 1995-96 prompting travel closer to freeway speeds, having a railroad crossing wasn't a good idea (especially if buses and hazardous cargo was still forced to stop at the tracks). The article goes further to state that Boulder City is looking to make use of the reconnected RR spur for tourism purposes.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on November 10, 2016, 06:52:19 AM
Google Maps shows Construction is well underway. I wonder what it will be signed as... I vote I-515!
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Max Rockatansky on November 10, 2016, 09:29:21 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 10, 2016, 06:52:19 AM
Google Maps shows Construction is well underway. I wonder what it will be signed as... I vote I-515!

Might make sense to drop the I-515 or make it hidden at the ramp for US 95.  Basically it would be co-signed with US 93, I'd say just put a future I-11 corridor sign somewhere like the Pat Tillman Bridge and call it a day.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: andy3175 on January 17, 2017, 12:58:21 AM
Update ...

http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/columns/road-warrior/i-11-segment-taking-shape-where-will-it-go-there (1/2/2017)

QuoteDrivers traveling between Las Vegas and Boulder City might notice that the new Interstate 11 is taking shape.

New bridges and retaining walls line a graded dirt path that will become a four-lane highway that's eventually expected to ease cross-border trade from Mexico to Canada by running through Arizona, Nevada and Idaho.

The $318 million freeway segment currently under construction only runs 15 miles between Henderson's southern border and the O'Callaghan-Tillman Bridge downstream from Hoover Dam, looping past Boulder City.

Construction started in April 2015, with the Nevada Department of Transportation working on a 2.5-mile stretch of I-11 closest to Las Vegas and the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada completing the rest of the segment.

But what comes after this freeway section is completed in fall 2018?

Bob from Las Vegas wanted to know why there's been so much debate on where I-11 should run north into the Las Vegas Valley.

Three routes are under consideration, but Bob called two of the options "a disaster."

Those proposed routes would use mostly existing highway infrastructure that might have to be expanded:

■ West on the 215 Beltway, winding up to a new connection with U.S. Highway 95.

■ North on U.S. 95 through the Spaghetti Bowl to the northwest end of the valley.

■ The third option would involve building a new freeway that would run from the Lake Mead National Recreation Area past Frenchman Mountain, about 8 miles east of Las Vegas, before emerging at Interstate 15, where it would connect with the 215 Beltway west to U.S. 95.

In each case, the I-11 corridor would exit the valley to the north along the existing U.S. Highway 95.

The proposed option to build a new freeway segment is "more costly, but it's a no-brainer because it would bypass all of the routes that are currently congested,"  Bob wrote in an email to the Road Warrior. "It just seems like common sense."

Perhaps so, Bob. But NDOT officials are still examining where the next segment of I-11 should run. A $5.3 million traffic study analyzing all of the valley's major freeway corridors – including I-11 – is expected to be completed by spring 2018, NDOT spokesman Tony Illia said.

"Interstate 11 plays an integral role serving the mountain-west region, which is expected to add 32 million more residents between now and 2030,"  Illia said. "It will also eventually connect Las Vegas and Phoenix, which are the country's two largest cities currently not linked by an interstate."
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on January 31, 2017, 02:24:08 AM
MOD NOTE: Replies from 1/18-28/2017 pertaining to the alignment of I-11 through Las Vegas were merged to this thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7881.msg2200204#msg2200204). This was done to keep commentary on general I-11 potential routings separate from this thread, which is about a specific I-11 project under construction on a known alignment. –Roadfro
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: J N Winkler on February 05, 2017, 11:36:03 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 10, 2016, 06:52:19 AMGoogle Maps shows Construction is well underway. I wonder what it will be signed as... I vote I-515!

This suggests I-11:

https://www.nevadadot.com/uploadedFiles/NDOT/About_NDOT/Board_of_Directors/TB%203-10-14%20BC%20Bypass.pdf

Apparently the game plan (as of 2014) was not just to sign Phases 1 & 2 as I-11 from the start, but also to let a separate pure signing contract (which Nevada DOT does not do, as a rule) to change I-515 to I-11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on February 06, 2017, 05:18:31 AM
Quote from: J N Winkler on February 05, 2017, 11:36:03 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 10, 2016, 06:52:19 AMGoogle Maps shows Construction is well underway. I wonder what it will be signed as... I vote I-515!

This suggests I-11:

https://www.nevadadot.com/uploadedFiles/NDOT/About_NDOT/Board_of_Directors/TB%203-10-14%20BC%20Bypass.pdf

Apparently the game plan (as of 2014) was not just to sign Phases 1 & 2 as I-11 from the start, but also to let a separate pure signing contract (which Nevada DOT does not do, as a rule) to change I-515 to I-11.

So that's at least a preliminary indicator that I-11 will be utilizing present I-515?  Didn't know that an alignment past the I-215 junction had been formally selected as of yet.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on February 06, 2017, 09:13:12 AM
Quote from: sparker on February 06, 2017, 05:18:31 AM
Quote from: J N Winkler on February 05, 2017, 11:36:03 PM
Apparently the game plan (as of 2014) was not just to sign Phases 1 & 2 as I-11 from the start, but also to let a separate pure signing contract (which Nevada DOT does not do, as a rule) to change I-515 to I-11.

So that's at least a preliminary indicator that I-11 will be utilizing present I-515?  Didn't know that an alignment past the I-215 junction had been formally selected as of yet.

I had forgotten about this. NDOT does have the AASHTO approval for signing I-11 from I-215 through the project (I think to the Hoover Dam bridge).

But that doesn't necessarily mean the final alignment has been settled...two of the three proposed alternatives (the US 95 and CC 215 alignments) would use this portion of the I-515 alignment anyway. I think this has more to do with getting the I-11 number signed in the field.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on February 06, 2017, 05:05:58 PM
Quote from: roadfro on February 06, 2017, 09:13:12 AM
Quote from: sparker on February 06, 2017, 05:18:31 AM
Quote from: J N Winkler on February 05, 2017, 11:36:03 PM
Apparently the game plan (as of 2014) was not just to sign Phases 1 & 2 as I-11 from the start, but also to let a separate pure signing contract (which Nevada DOT does not do, as a rule) to change I-515 to I-11.

So that's at least a preliminary indicator that I-11 will be utilizing present I-515?  Didn't know that an alignment past the I-215 junction had been formally selected as of yet.

I had forgotten about this. NDOT does have the AASHTO approval for signing I-11 from I-215 through the project (I think to the Hoover Dam bridge).

But that doesn't necessarily mean the final alignment has been settled...two of the three proposed alternatives (the US 95 and CC 215 alignments) would use this portion of the I-515 alignment anyway. I think this has more to do with getting the I-11 number signed in the field.

Now that's interesting -- the possibility that the present I-215/515 junction will be, for a time, a 3-way interchange with I-11, I-215, and I-515 having common termini!  And I thought I-280 and I-680 butting heads in San Jose was weird!   ;-)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: NE2 on February 06, 2017, 05:15:39 PM
We already have that: I-64/264/664.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: myosh_tino on February 06, 2017, 06:24:33 PM
Quote from: NE2 on February 06, 2017, 05:15:39 PM
We already have that: I-64/264/664.

In NE2's example, the two 3DIs are children of the 2DI (64/264/664).

In the case of I-11 in Las Vegas, the two 3DIs are *not* children of the 2DI but rather they are the children of I-15.  It's a fun oddity in any case. :)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Rothman on February 08, 2017, 08:09:09 AM
I-90/I-290/I-395.  Just sayin'.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on February 08, 2017, 06:47:21 PM
Quote from: sparker on February 06, 2017, 05:05:58 PM
Now that's interesting -- the possibility that the present I-215/515 junction will be, for a time, a 3-way interchange with I-11, I-215, and I-515 having common termini!  And I thought I-280 and I-680 butting heads in San Jose was weird!   ;-)
Quote from: myosh_tino on February 06, 2017, 06:24:33 PM
Quote from: NE2 on February 06, 2017, 05:15:39 PM
We already have that: I-64/264/664.

In NE2's example, the two 3DIs are children of the 2DI (64/264/664).

In the case of I-11 in Las Vegas, the two 3DIs are *not* children of the 2DI but rather they are the children of I-15.  It's a fun oddity in any case. :)
Quote from: Rothman on February 08, 2017, 08:09:09 AM
I-90/I-290/I-395.  Just sayin'.

But the 90/290/395 junction isn't fully a mutual terminus; I-90 continues through the interchange unscathed!  But 11/215/515 would be the first time where the 2di terminated at a pair of 3di "children" of a completely different 2di -- and all had a common (albeit likely very temporary) termination point.  OK -- the distinction's a bit arcane, but it is unique!   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on May 19, 2017, 09:50:28 PM
The Las Vegas Review-Journal updates us with a report and photo gallery:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/breathtaking-view-highlights-coming-interstate-linking-las-vegas-phoenix/

QuoteThe first interstate linking Las Vegas and Phoenix will ease traffic congestion and offer a spectacular vista above Lake Mead, transportation officials promised Friday during a tour of ongoing construction.

"It's a breathtaking, panoramic view of one of the nation's largest man-made lakes,"  Nevada Department of Transportation spokesman Tony Illia said.

The 15-mile stretch of Interstate 11, touted as Nevada's "largest infrastructure project,"  is expected to open by June 2018.

(https://www.reviewjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/8570639_web1_interstate-11-may20-17bt21.jpg)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on May 20, 2017, 12:59:48 AM
Those pix in the article show some great views.  I also liked how there is artwork on the concrete that appears dedicated to the men who built Hoover Dam.  Seeing some concrete already down shows the progress is real.  Eliminating the Boulder City bottleneck will be huge.

So what are the plans for I-11 in Arizona shaping up to at least I-40?

Rick
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: dfwmapper on May 21, 2017, 05:02:10 PM
Quote from: nexus73 on May 20, 2017, 12:59:48 AM
So what are the plans for I-11 in Arizona shaping up to at least I-40?
The only thing Arizona has any movement on between Nevada and I-40 is is the new West Kingman interchange between US 93 and I-40, which has a preferred alignment selected, but doesn't have a final EIS done, let alone any plan for funding, design, or construction.

There are 3 near-term projects for 4 laning other parts of US 93 in Arizona: "The Gap" section (which runs from the roundabout at Tegner St. (old US 93) north of Wickenburg to AZ 89) will be constructed in FY 2020; the Carrow Stephens section (from what is labeled on Google as Deluge Wash south to Luchia's Restaurant) in FY 2021, and Cane Springs, which is near Cane Springs, which has money for design in FY 2021 and will see construction sometime after that. That still leaves 23.5 miles through the Joshua tree forest and 3 more miles north of AZ 89, plus whatever ends up happening with Wikieup, which is 4 lanes with a TWLTL through town, but has 2 lane segments on both sides. Based on need, the first limited access section to be built (other than the I-40 interchange) will probably be a new-terrain bypass of Wickenburg.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: ilpt4u on May 22, 2017, 11:03:51 PM
I know it would violate "The Grid" -- but wouldn't the Vegas/Phoenix Interstate make a better Interstate 21 than Interstate 11? Its not THAT far away from where an I-21 could be, and come on, its Vegas...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 22, 2017, 11:16:52 PM
Quote from: ilpt4u on May 22, 2017, 11:03:51 PM
I know it would violate "The Grid" -- but wouldn't the Vegas/Phoenix Interstate make a better Interstate 21 than Interstate 11? Its not THAT far away from where an I-21 could be, and come on, its Vegas...

(1)  It's west of both I-17 & I-19.
(2)  I-13 wouldn't fly in the Vegas environs.
(3)  It's legally designated I-11 all the way to I-80 near Reno; it's grid-appropriate for
       that northerly segment (whether it's ever actually built is yet TBD), and it pretty
       much functions as a diagonal wherever it goes.
(4)  "11" is an instant-winner in craps (like "7").  Definitely Vegas-ready!
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: ilpt4u on May 23, 2017, 02:24:55 AM
True, 11/Yo wins at Craps, and that Ace in Blackjack is worth 11 also...so Interstate 11 isn't void of Gambling references

Even if it doesn't quite fit due to existing Interstates 17 and 19, I still like Interstate 21...21 to Gamble, 21 Winner @ Blackjack, 21 to Drink...21 just yells "Vegas" to me

And I agree, Interstate 13 would be horrible for Vegas!

I-21 wouldn't be nearly as Grid-offensive as I-99, but that is a low bar, granted

But, I-11 it is, barring some completely out of Left Field surprise
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kkt on May 23, 2017, 04:34:52 PM
I-99 is not a bad choice of number.  You could argue that it shouldn't be an interstate at all, or that it should be a 3di, but once you've decided it needs a 2di number, 99 is the best you could do unless you want to renumber existing routes.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 23, 2017, 04:38:37 PM
Quote from: ilpt4u on May 23, 2017, 02:24:55 AM
I still like Interstate 21...21 to Gamble, 21 Winner @ Blackjack, 21 to Drink...21 just yells "Vegas" to me

To those of us who attended colleges a few hours' drive from Vegas, 21's laughable; fake ID's were pretty easy to cobble up in the days of black-and-white CA drivers' licenses (especially with access to the school newspaper's photo lab!).  Hit there on spring break with several buddies when I was an 18-year-old freshman without any issues; repeated the process the next year (following year was a long road trip to NOLA, so the cycle was interrupted).  Not that I'm advising flouting the law that way -- it's just that in the pre-IT days, it was a lot easier to do so in this regard.   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on May 29, 2017, 04:13:41 PM
Quote from: dfwmapper on May 21, 2017, 05:02:10 PM
Quote from: nexus73 on May 20, 2017, 12:59:48 AM
So what are the plans for I-11 in Arizona shaping up to at least I-40?
The only thing Arizona has any movement on between Nevada and I-40 is is the new West Kingman interchange between US 93 and I-40, which has a preferred alignment selected, but doesn't have a final EIS done, let alone any plan for funding, design, or construction.

There are 3 near-term projects for 4 laning other parts of US 93 in Arizona: "The Gap" section (which runs from the roundabout at Tegner St. (old US 93) north of Wickenburg to AZ 89) will be constructed in FY 2020; the Carrow Stephens section (from what is labeled on Google as Deluge Wash south to Luchia's Restaurant) in FY 2021, and Cane Springs, which is near Cane Springs, which has money for design in FY 2021 and will see construction sometime after that. That still leaves 23.5 miles through the Joshua tree forest and 3 more miles north of AZ 89, plus whatever ends up happening with Wikieup, which is 4 lanes with a TWLTL through town, but has 2 lane segments on both sides. Based on need, the first limited access section to be built (other than the I-40 interchange) will probably be a new-terrain bypass of Wickenburg.

Glad to see these happening, I drive this route a lot and traffic bunches up a lot in "the Gap" area still, especially with the slower trucks.

I did notice that there is a project to widen the shoulders of 93 on the stretch north of I-40 that started south of the newer segment that runs through the Lake Mead National Park.
With the exception of one turnoff to nowhere the 11 miles through the park area from the state line down to about mile 11 is up to freeway standards already, and once these shoulder widening is finished the next section down to where the first group of gas stations are (Rosie's Den, etc) will be up to freeway standard.
Seems to look like once the new Kingman interchange is built, we'll see an I-11 that runs from I-515 down to I-40 at least.  There's probably at least 5 or 6 interchanges that will need to be built along that stretch still that are currently road crossings, but much less than the other stretches south of 40. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on May 31, 2017, 04:07:40 AM
Quote from: J N Winkler on February 05, 2017, 11:36:03 PM

This suggests I-11:

https://www.nevadadot.com/uploadedFiles/NDOT/About_NDOT/Board_of_Directors/TB%203-10-14%20BC%20Bypass.pdf

Apparently the game plan (as of 2014) was not just to sign Phases 1 & 2 as I-11 from the start, but also to let a separate pure signing contract (which Nevada DOT does not do, as a rule) to change I-515 to I-11.

I predict that it will remain the second shortest 2di for a very long time.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on May 31, 2017, 10:47:52 AM
Quote from: kdk on May 29, 2017, 04:13:41 PM
Quote from: dfwmapper on May 21, 2017, 05:02:10 PM
Quote from: nexus73 on May 20, 2017, 12:59:48 AM
So what are the plans for I-11 in Arizona shaping up to at least I-40?
The only thing Arizona has any movement on between Nevada and I-40 is is the new West Kingman interchange between US 93 and I-40, which has a preferred alignment selected, but doesn't have a final EIS done, let alone any plan for funding, design, or construction.

There are 3 near-term projects for 4 laning other parts of US 93 in Arizona: "The Gap" section (which runs from the roundabout at Tegner St. (old US 93) north of Wickenburg to AZ 89) will be constructed in FY 2020; the Carrow Stephens section (from what is labeled on Google as Deluge Wash south to Luchia's Restaurant) in FY 2021, and Cane Springs, which is near Cane Springs, which has money for design in FY 2021 and will see construction sometime after that. That still leaves 23.5 miles through the Joshua tree forest and 3 more miles north of AZ 89, plus whatever ends up happening with Wikieup, which is 4 lanes with a TWLTL through town, but has 2 lane segments on both sides. Based on need, the first limited access section to be built (other than the I-40 interchange) will probably be a new-terrain bypass of Wickenburg.

Glad to see these happening, I drive this route a lot and traffic bunches up a lot in "the Gap" area still, especially with the slower trucks.

I did notice that there is a project to widen the shoulders of 93 on the stretch north of I-40 that started south of the newer segment that runs through the Lake Mead National Park.
With the exception of one turnoff to nowhere the 11 miles through the park area from the state line down to about mile 11 is up to freeway standards already, and once these shoulder widening is finished the next section down to where the first group of gas stations are (Rosie's Den, etc) will be up to freeway standard.
Seems to look like once the new Kingman interchange is built, we'll see an I-11 that runs from I-515 down to I-40 at least.  There's probably at least 5 or 6 interchanges that will need to be built along that stretch still that are currently road crossings, but much less than the other stretches south of 40. 

Maybe I-11 should just go from Vegas to I-40.  Any Phoenix-bound traffic can then take I-40 to I-17 to continue their freeway routing.

Rick
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 31, 2017, 03:45:50 PM
Quote from: nexus73 on May 31, 2017, 10:47:52 AM
Maybe I-11 should just go from Vegas to I-40.  Any Phoenix-bound traffic can then take I-40 to I-17 to continue their freeway routing.

That's probably going to be the extent of I-11 signage in the short term.  However, there's enough political support (if not near-term funding) to get the corridor all the way to greater Phoenix at some time TBD.   I'll venture that there will be a full -- and signed -- I-11 freeway corridor between I-40 and Vegas by no later than 2024-25; but the segment south of there to Phoenix will proceed in bits & pieces, with signage on any significant freeway segments, for 10-15 years after that.   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kkt on May 31, 2017, 03:49:03 PM
Are they really suggesting I-11 might take a route other than US 93 at least as far as Wickenburg?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 31, 2017, 09:35:12 PM
Quote from: kkt on May 31, 2017, 03:49:03 PM
Are they really suggesting I-11 might take a route other than US 93 at least as far as Wickenburg?


No, I think what Rick is suggesting is the possibility of only building I-11 from Vegas to Kingman, then just letting drivers (a) head over east to I-17 if they want to stay on an Interstate to Phoenix or (b) use US 93 as is (nascent expressway) at less-than-Interstate standards -- primarily for the reason that the present road north of Kingman is a much simpler Interstate conversion.  However, that won't happen, as the corridor planners will eventually get their way and have a fully realized I-11 all the way to somewhere in the Phoenix area; there's too much clout behind that proposal for truncated plans to be considered at this point.  Enough influence, I daresay, to overcome the objections of those who blanch at the thought of spending money on such frivolous matters as new freeways (even by nominally conservative AZ political standards!).  It'll take time, but the odds are in favor of I-11 being built (although the south end, currently more or less up for grabs, may end up anywhere in the Salt River basin!).   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on June 01, 2017, 10:53:48 AM
Quote from: sparker on May 31, 2017, 09:35:12 PM
Quote from: kkt on May 31, 2017, 03:49:03 PM
Are they really suggesting I-11 might take a route other than US 93 at least as far as Wickenburg?


No, I think what Rick is suggesting is the possibility of only building I-11 from Vegas to Kingman, then just letting drivers (a) head over east to I-17 if they want to stay on an Interstate to Phoenix or (b) use US 93 as is (nascent expressway) at less-than-Interstate standards -- primarily for the reason that the present road north of Kingman is a much simpler Interstate conversion.  However, that won't happen, as the corridor planners will eventually get their way and have a fully realized I-11 all the way to somewhere in the Phoenix area; there's too much clout behind that proposal for truncated plans to be considered at this point.  Enough influence, I daresay, to overcome the objections of those who blanch at the thought of spending money on such frivolous matters as new freeways (even by nominally conservative AZ political standards!).  It'll take time, but the odds are in favor of I-11 being built (although the south end, currently more or less up for grabs, may end up anywhere in the Salt River basin!).   

Yes, you got my meaning right Sparker.  Looking at what I think traffic flows are like, Vegas to Valley Of The Sun flows would seem to be lower than Phoenix-SoCal.  With Federal money being limited, I'd rather upgrade and extend US 60 to California 62, then renumber that route as US 60 than build a southerly I-11 extension.  Why?  Remember the I-10 bridge washout?  LA is such a megapolis that it needs backup freeway/expressway routes to ensure the flow of goods and food.  LA County has more people than any state west of the Rockies has. 

Going towards Kingman from Hoover Dam shows the highway as pretty close to freeway standards.  When the Boulder City Bypass is completed in 2018, it would seem plausible to finish a shorter I-11 by 2020 or so it seems, thus basically accomplishing the mission of freeway to freeway connection between the two major southwestern cities.

Rick

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Bobby5280 on June 01, 2017, 02:57:31 PM
As far as any possible truncating of I-11 goes, I'm skeptical I-11 will run South of the Phoenix area. With current funding problems it may only get as far as the US-60, AZ-303 intersection.

I certainly see no justification of building a new route parallel to existing I-19. Does Nogales really have enough traffic to justify TWO North-South Interstates? All but the Northernmost mile of I-19 is 2 lanes in each direction, with plenty of ROW to add 3 or 4 lanes in each direction. Tucson is one of the largest cities in the country without an sort of freeway quality loop. But making I-11 go there alongside I-10 is overkill. And it's only going to be corny if I-11 is multiplexed on top of I-10 and I-19. Tucson can get by just as well by eventually building a 3di route from I-10.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 01, 2017, 03:13:24 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on June 01, 2017, 02:57:31 PM
As far as any possible truncating of I-11 goes, I'm skeptical I-11 will run South of the Phoenix area. With current funding problems it may only get as far as the US-60, AZ-303 intersection.

I certainly see no justification of building a new route parallel to existing I-19. Does Nogales really have enough traffic to justify TWO North-South Interstates? All but the Northernmost mile of I-19 is 2 lanes in each direction, with plenty of ROW to add 3 or 4 lanes in each direction. Tucson is one of the largest cities in the country without an sort of freeway quality loop. But making I-11 go there alongside I-10 is overkill. And it's only going to be corny if I-11 is multiplex on top of I-10 and I-19. Tucson can get by just as well by eventually building a 3di route from I-10.

I'm more or less in agreement with this viewpoint.  It's likely the I-11 extension that terminated near Casa Grande was proposed to serve the rapidly developing "infill" area between Phoenix and Tucson.  There's no need (or available money!) for anything south of there.  And if another recession hits in the meantime, that infill development might just be put on indefinite hold -- meaning the concept of simply taking I-11 SE along US 60 and using Loop 303 to finish the job would be logistically and fiscally appropriate.   Just as an aside -- I can't see the Border Patrol supporting a 2nd freeway paralleling I-19; twice as much corridor for them to deal with.  The "Sonoran" corridor connecting I-10 and I-19 south of Tucson is probably the only new roadway development that will actually be built in the near-to-medium term; whether that actually turns into a full Tucson bypass remains to be seen.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: MarkF on June 10, 2017, 02:55:44 AM
I went out to the Hoover Dam area last week, here are some photos of the new construction:

Just past the Hoover Dam Lodge Casino, where the south end of the bypass comes into the current routing of US 93.  This is the exit tunnel for NV172 to the Hoover Dam.  NV172 is the old routing of US 93.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z8ZViKk.jpg)

Just past the NV172 underpass of US 93, I think this shell may be for the future northbound I-11 lanes:
(https://i.imgur.com/BGxEbBh.jpg)

US 93 just south of NV172:
(https://i.imgur.com/BkF4bL5.jpg)

US 93 just north of Hoover Dam:
(https://i.imgur.com/O29rHHW.jpg)

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 10, 2017, 03:34:03 AM
Quote from: MarkF on June 10, 2017, 02:55:44 AM
I went out to the Hoover Dam area last week, here are some photos of the new construction:

Those last two appear to be the previously-constructed Hoover Dam Bypass, not the Boulder City Bypass currently under construction...

But the first two do appear to be construction at exit 2 where the bypass will tie in. Interesting in the second photo that they're using an arch style construction for this underpass. That style I've only ever seen in Nevada on wildlife crossings (where road passes under the arch). I know they're building a few wildlife crossings on this project, but this doesn't seem like a likely location for one.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: MarkF on June 10, 2017, 02:00:18 PM
Here's a  closer shot of the arch:
(https://i.imgur.com/lrqtni6.jpg)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 10, 2017, 05:06:39 PM
^ Investigating further, this arch appears to be situated at the SR 172 interchange just north of the existing US 93 overpass (built as part of the Hoover Dam Bypass project) between the northbound off ramp and the SR 172/northbound on ramp intersections.

If that's the case, then I think it's more likely that this will become a direct ramp from northbound US 93 to the old highway (which will be designated US 93 Business). I think the current bridge of US 93 over SR 172 will be retained for both directions of freeway travel, with the new bypass roadway tying in and the old highway being slightly realigned.

I saw a rendering video on the RTC's I-11 site showing some reconfiguration at this interchange, but that showed SR 172 tying into a realigned old US 93 without any new overpasses...


EDIT: Further thought: That exit tunnel did not exist before either. Perhaps that is how southbound old US 93 will tie into the SR 172 interchange, crossing under the bypass alignment...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 10, 2017, 05:35:41 PM
NDOT News update on Phase 1 (I-515 to US 95), posted 5/8/17

https://www.youtube.com/embed/PH3gZmPOVCk
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on June 21, 2017, 01:59:16 AM
Quote from: nexus73 on May 31, 2017, 10:47:52 AM
Maybe I-11 should just go from Vegas to I-40.  Any Phoenix-bound traffic can then take I-40 to I-17 to continue their freeway routing.

Just one problem: snow. I-40 just west of Flagstaff is three thousand feet higher than it is just west of where US-93 heads south. In the winter, it's not always passable.

And not just the winter: I had one of the most harrowing driving experiences of my life heading from the Grand Canyon South Rim down to Tucson one April, going through Flagstaff in a snowstorm. Took over six hours. Must have seen a hundred vehicles in the ditch off I-17. In the rest stop just north of Rimrock, the survivors all swapped war stories.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on June 21, 2017, 11:20:08 AM
Quote from: pderocco on June 21, 2017, 01:59:16 AM
Quote from: nexus73 on May 31, 2017, 10:47:52 AM
Maybe I-11 should just go from Vegas to I-40.  Any Phoenix-bound traffic can then take I-40 to I-17 to continue their freeway routing.

Just one problem: snow. I-40 just west of Flagstaff is three thousand feet higher than it is just west of where US-93 heads south. In the winter, it's not always passable.

And not just the winter: I had one of the most harrowing driving experiences of my life heading from the Grand Canyon South Rim down to Tucson one April, going through Flagstaff in a snowstorm. Took over six hours. Must have seen a hundred vehicles in the ditch off I-17. In the rest stop just north of Rimrock, the survivors all swapped war stories.

How long is I-40's section that you referenced closed? 

Rick
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on June 21, 2017, 12:56:34 PM
When the freeway conversion through Boulder City is finished, are the I-515 exit numbers going to be changed from US 95 mileposts to US 93? Seems like that would be best, as 93 will be the through route, and it will be I-11 in the future.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 21, 2017, 01:41:13 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on June 21, 2017, 12:56:34 PM
When the freeway conversion through Boulder City is finished, are the I-515 exit numbers going to be changed from US 95 mileposts to US 93? Seems like that would be best, as 93 will be the through route, and it will be I-11 in the future.

Since both US 93 & 95 share the alignment with I-515 -- and the specific exit numbers linked to the 95 mileage have been around for about 30 years -- it's likely that only any section bearing the I-11 designation will utilize numbers based on I-11/US 93 mileage.  If down the line I-515 is redesignated as I-11, expect the change to come at that point.  That way, businesses and other properties (residential, etc.) have additional time to retain and eventually update their information re which exit accesses their location.   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 22, 2017, 10:40:28 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 21, 2017, 01:41:13 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on June 21, 2017, 12:56:34 PM
When the freeway conversion through Boulder City is finished, are the I-515 exit numbers going to be changed from US 95 mileposts to US 93? Seems like that would be best, as 93 will be the through route, and it will be I-11 in the future.

Since both US 93 & 95 share the alignment with I-515 -- and the specific exit numbers linked to the 95 mileage have been around for about 30 years -- it's likely that only any section bearing the I-11 designation will utilize numbers based on I-11/US 93 mileage.  If down the line I-515 is redesignated as I-11, expect the change to come at that point.  That way, businesses and other properties (residential, etc.) have additional time to retain and eventually update their information re which exit accesses their location.   

+1

It should be noted that the final alignment of I-11 has not yet been decided. While the I-515/US 95 alignment seems like the most likely contender, the 215 south/west alignment is another option under consideration (as well as the less likely new eastern/north 215 alignment being studied). Thus, it is too early to tell regarding exit numbering.

I-515 currently uses the US 95 mileposting instead of US 93's (and did even prior to I-515 being signed circa 1994-95) because US 95 is the through route at the I-15 Spaghetti Bowl interchange.
Title: I-11 Phase 1 signage
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 02, 2017, 01:08:29 PM
Phase 1 of I-11 was scheduled to open in July (but appears to not be open yet).

I'm curious if anyone's seen whether this first phase will include actual I-11 shields, or if NDOT is holding off on that until after Phase 2 is open... or until Arizona's section is somewhat completed... or some other date to be determined.

Anyone seen anything?
Title: Re: I-11 Phase 1 signage
Post by: silverback1065 on August 02, 2017, 01:26:28 PM
Theyre signing this already? From where to where? I'd like to get a hold of one of those shields one day, 11 is my favorite number!
Title: Re: I-11 Phase 1 signage
Post by: oscar on August 02, 2017, 01:45:00 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 02, 2017, 01:08:29 PM
Phase 1 of I-11 was scheduled to open in July (but appears to not be open yet).

How likely will it be open in the next two weeks? I'll be in the general area, and would like to snag that along with the just opened I-580 extension in Carson City. But I had thought the planned completion date was in December.
Title: Re: I-11 Phase 1 signage
Post by: roadfro on August 03, 2017, 12:52:16 AM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 02, 2017, 01:08:29 PM
Phase 1 of I-11 was scheduled to open in July (but appears to not be open yet).

You're a bit mistaken, as only a small portion of phase 1 was going to open at the end of July. Southbound US 93 was to be shifted to the new alignment from current end of I-515, and use the new flyover to connect to existing southbound US 93 (future US 93 Business) near the existing US 95 interchange. See: https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/news-columns/road-warrior/2-mile-stretch-of-southbound-i-11-to-open-by-the-end-of-july/


Quote
I'm curious if anyone's seen whether this first phase will include actual I-11 shields, or if NDOT is holding off on that until after Phase 2 is open... or until Arizona's section is somewhat completed... or some other date to be determined.

Anyone seen anything?

As mentioned previously, NDOT has AASHTO approval to sign I-11 for a short distance, but I have no idea whether they plan to sign it at this time. My guess is that they're not going to for now until at least the entire project is done, if not waiting until a greater alignment decision is made...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on August 03, 2017, 01:04:56 AM
For what it's worth, the Hoover Dam bridge is technically the first completed portion of I-11. (unless you count pre-existing freeways in Las Vegas, but it's the first new construction)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 03, 2017, 11:37:50 AM
Some of the signing has started. This is southbound on current 515/93/95, but note the exit numbers (15A and 15B). Also, it looks like the 93 mainline will be moved over to the new freeway. (Apologies for the photo quality; I was standing way over on the bike/ped path.)

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fn7RHkPb.jpg&hash=eee35ff1e0ddd9521fd4b95e6980c208b117f126)

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 03, 2017, 11:46:23 AM
Does that say "Boulder City Blvd"? Surprising that "Nevada Highway" wasn't used.

Also, I kind of expected the signage on that to say "Boulder City, Hoover Dam," without a street name, to encourage pass-through tourist traffic in B.C. Shrug.

Thanks Kniwt! Keep 'em coming.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Alex on August 03, 2017, 01:36:57 PM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 03, 2017, 11:37:50 AM
Also, it looks like the 93 mainline will be moved over to the new freeway.

Per the AASHTO meeting on May 23 of this year, Nevada requested both to relocate U.S. 93 onto I-11, and established U.S. 93 Business along the former route. Both requests were approved.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: silverback1065 on August 03, 2017, 02:13:05 PM
is i-215 going to be replacing county route 215 any time soon?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 03, 2017, 03:06:47 PM
What I remember from many, many years ago — so long ago that it may not even be true anymore, even if my memory is right: NDOT felt that it couldn't put the Interstate shield on 215 except between segments that connect to already-signed Interstates. So the 15-515 segment qualified, but the west-of-15 segments wouldn't happen until either A) 215 is a full freeway all the way back around to I-15 at the Speedway, or, B) US 95 is signed as I-11 through northwest Las Vegas, and they are connected by a full interchange.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 03, 2017, 04:13:37 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 03, 2017, 11:46:23 AM
Does that say "Boulder City Blvd"? Surprising that "Nevada Highway" wasn't used.

Also, I kind of expected the signage on that to say "Boulder City, Hoover Dam," without a street name, to encourage pass-through tourist traffic in B.C. Shrug.

My guess is that a post-mounted "Boulder City, Lake Mead / Exit 15A" supplemental sign will be used for this purpose. No need to include Hoover Dam there (since that is better accessed via existing Exit 2), but the most direct path to Lake Mead from this direction will still be to go through town.

Google Street View suggests that Boulder City isn't too attached to the "Nevada Highway" name on existing US 93 northbound from the main downtown intersection. Backlit street name signs on traffic signals read "US 93", 1 newer street name sign at a cross street reads "US 93", about 2 street name signs at minor cross streets have older "Nevada Hwy" blades, and an additional 2-3 cross streets are missing the 93/Nevada Hwy blade altogether. Pretty much all of the street name signs at cross streets southbound from downtown all read "US 93"–although that makes sense with Nevada Way being a separate roadway through their historic downtown. My guess is that NDOT recommended the city to put a street name on old US 93, and the the city chose "Boulder City Blvd" so they could have the city's name on the freeway signs for the Business Route–or, since the business route is still currently owned/maintained as a state highway, NDOT just chose this name.


I'm actually more surprised that the casino access road is actually named "Railroad Pass Casino Rd". I'd have thought they'd just call it "Railroad Pass Road" so that the road could be named for a semi-geographic feature and not a business...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 03, 2017, 04:31:49 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on August 03, 2017, 01:04:56 AM
For what it's worth, the Hoover Dam bridge is technically the first completed portion of I-11. (unless you count pre-existing freeways in Las Vegas, but it's the first new construction)

Note, however, that the Boulder City Bypass is the first project started as an I-11 project (even though the concept predated I-11 by about a decade). If I recall correctly, the Hoover Dam Bypass was already in construction, if not finished, when I-11 became official.

Quote from: silverback1065 on August 03, 2017, 02:13:05 PM
is i-215 going to be replacing county route 215 any time soon?
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 03, 2017, 03:06:47 PM
What I remember from many, many years ago — so long ago that it may not even be true anymore, even if my memory is right: NDOT felt that it couldn't put the Interstate shield on 215 except between segments that connect to already-signed Interstates. So the 15-515 segment qualified, but the west-of-15 segments wouldn't happen until either A) 215 is a full freeway all the way back around to I-15 at the Speedway, or, B) US 95 is signed as I-11 through northwest Las Vegas, and they are connected by a full interchange.

That's completely off topic... The Las Vegas Beltway was only signed as I-215 between I-15 and I-515, since the remaining portions were initially not built to Interstate standards (immediately west of I-15 was initially a frontage road network all the way to Russell Road). A construction projects currently underway will extend the freeway build out around the northwest corner by early next year, resulting in ~37 miles of continuous freeway (to just short of the US 95 interchange). However, I don't believe there are plans to sign CC 215 as I-215 until the entire route is built to Interstate standards.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 03, 2017, 09:02:16 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 03, 2017, 04:31:49 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on August 03, 2017, 01:04:56 AM
For what it's worth, the Hoover Dam bridge is technically the first completed portion of I-11. (unless you count pre-existing freeways in Las Vegas, but it's the first new construction)

Note, however, that the Boulder City Bypass is the first project started as an I-11 project (even though the concept predated I-11 by about a decade). If I recall correctly, the Hoover Dam Bypass was already in construction, if not finished, when I-11 became official.

Quote from: silverback1065 on August 03, 2017, 02:13:05 PM
is i-215 going to be replacing county route 215 any time soon?
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 03, 2017, 03:06:47 PM
What I remember from many, many years ago — so long ago that it may not even be true anymore, even if my memory is right: NDOT felt that it couldn't put the Interstate shield on 215 except between segments that connect to already-signed Interstates. So the 15-515 segment qualified, but the west-of-15 segments wouldn't happen until either A) 215 is a full freeway all the way back around to I-15 at the Speedway, or, B) US 95 is signed as I-11 through northwest Las Vegas, and they are connected by a full interchange.

That's completely off topic... The Las Vegas Beltway was only signed as I-215 between I-15 and I-515, since the remaining portions were initially not built to Interstate standards (immediately west of I-15 was initially a frontage road network all the way to Russell Road). A construction projects currently underway will extend the freeway build out around the northwest corner by early next year, resulting in ~37 miles of continuous freeway (to just short of the US 95 interchange). However, I don't believe there are plans to sign CC 215 as I-215 until the entire route is built to Interstate standards.

That, and the possibility, remote or not, that I-11 might be routed around the SW city perimeter on what is now the composite 215 rather than directly through the city center.  I would think that particular decision would precede any Interstate signage west of the current I-15/I-215/CC 215 interchange.   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on August 04, 2017, 06:46:26 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 03, 2017, 04:13:37 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 03, 2017, 11:46:23 AM
Does that say "Boulder City Blvd"? Surprising that "Nevada Highway" wasn't used.

Also, I kind of expected the signage on that to say "Boulder City, Hoover Dam," without a street name, to encourage pass-through tourist traffic in B.C. Shrug.

My guess is that a post-mounted "Boulder City, Lake Mead / Exit 15A" supplemental sign will be used for this purpose. No need to include Hoover Dam there (since that is better accessed via existing Exit 2), but the most direct path to Lake Mead from this direction will still be to go through town.

Google Street View suggests that Boulder City isn't too attached to the "Nevada Highway" name on existing US 93 northbound from the main downtown intersection. Backlit street name signs on traffic signals read "US 93", 1 newer street name sign at a cross street reads "US 93", about 2 street name signs at minor cross streets have older "Nevada Hwy" blades, and an additional 2-3 cross streets are missing the 93/Nevada Hwy blade altogether. Pretty much all of the street name signs at cross streets southbound from downtown all read "US 93"–although that makes sense with Nevada Way being a separate roadway through their historic downtown. My guess is that NDOT recommended the city to put a street name on old US 93, and the the city chose "Boulder City Blvd" so they could have the city's name on the freeway signs for the Business Route–or, since the business route is still currently owned/maintained as a state highway, NDOT just chose this name.


I'm actually more surprised that the casino access road is actually named "Railroad Pass Casino Rd". I'd have thought they'd just call it "Railroad Pass Road" so that the road could be named for a semi-geographic feature and not a business...

The Boulder City Boulevard is more/less a "new" thing for them.  With the change in traffic pattern Boulder City is planning some reconfiguration of the road, with new medians, landscaping, etc. to give the area a more touristy friendly look to attract people there with traffic volumes dropping. 

http://bouldercityreview.com/opinion/city-aims-complete-parkway-project#sthash.ukFomtEV.dpbs

Only thing is it sounded like they were going with "Boulder City Parkway" instead.

As for the Railroad Pass name, I believe the casino owner was forced to contribute $$$ and some of his land for right of way for the new highway in return to having his own interchange there, hence he must have negotiated getting the "casino" name there.  He's also taking advantage of it to add a truck stop and some other facilities there on his land.

As for the 11 Signs, I did notice that several construction signs and trailers had the 11 shield on them from the beginning of the project so it seemed like it would be signed 11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 06, 2017, 01:50:10 AM
Quote from: kdk on August 04, 2017, 06:46:26 PM
As for the Railroad Pass name, I believe the casino owner was forced to contribute $$$ and some of his land for right of way for the new highway in return to having his own interchange there, hence he must have negotiated getting the "casino" name there.  He's also taking advantage of it to add a truck stop and some other facilities there on his land.

As for the 11 Signs, I did notice that several construction signs and trailers had the 11 shield on them from the beginning of the project so it seemed like it would be signed 11.

The Railroad Pass casino has been a pain in the ass, traffic-wise, for as long as I can remember; the casino owner must have forged some real political connections, as it seems the traffic light at the casino entrance near the top of the pass was never favorable to through traffic; there appeared to be a definite bias toward expediting movement to and from the casino grounds.  If indeed the owner was required to pony up for some of the improvements, then more power to NVDOT for squeezing it out of him (although he did acquire his own interchange in the process -- so he [or they] can't feel all that put-upon!).

I-11 signs on construction trailers may or may not necessarily indicate actual field signage -- although at this juncture I'd guess that someone in an official capacity will deem it appropriate to sign I-11 from at least the I-215/515 junction eastward to the bridge/state line -- if only to stake the state's "claim" to the designation.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 07, 2017, 11:35:17 AM
Quote from: sparker on August 06, 2017, 01:50:10 AM
The Railroad Pass casino has been a pain in the ass, traffic-wise, for as long as I can remember; the casino owner must have forged some real political connections, as it seems the traffic light at the casino entrance near the top of the pass was never favorable to through traffic; there appeared to be a definite bias toward expediting movement to and from the casino grounds.

The casino was owned by Mike Ensign, father of former U.S. Senator John Ensign, and eventually was folded into the Mandalay Resort Group, which eventually was folded into MGM Mirage. MGM sold it in 2014... right about when plans for the bypass were finalized.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 07, 2017, 12:42:57 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 07, 2017, 11:35:17 AM
Quote from: sparker on August 06, 2017, 01:50:10 AM
The Railroad Pass casino has been a pain in the ass, traffic-wise, for as long as I can remember; the casino owner must have forged some real political connections, as it seems the traffic light at the casino entrance near the top of the pass was never favorable to through traffic; there appeared to be a definite bias toward expediting movement to and from the casino grounds.

The casino was owned by Mike Ensign, father of former U.S. Senator John Ensign, and eventually was folded into the Mandalay Resort Group, which eventually was folded into MGM Mirage. MGM sold it in 2014... right about when plans for the bypass were finalized.


Well, there you go; just a little bit of nepotism added into the equation -- figures!  So after the string of "bigger fish eating smaller fish" took it to MGM, which eventually sold it -- who owns it now?  As they were able to get their own interchange rather than having to survive as a denizen of a frontage road, it would seem they still are able to exert some level of influence! 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 10, 2017, 11:23:03 AM
The mystery of Boulder City Boulevard is solved:

http://bouldercityreview.com/news/where-s-boulevard-new-sign-over-interstate-misnames-roadway
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 10, 2017, 01:44:21 PM
The new 2.5-mile section opens (southbound only) Tuesday at 5 a.m.:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/2-5-mile-stretch-of-southbound-i-11-opens-tuesday/

QuoteDrivers headed south on U.S. Highway 93 will be directed onto southbound I-11's concrete lanes near the casino in Henderson, NDOT spokesman Tony Illia said.

From there, vehicles will get to use a new 600-foot-long flyover bridge that connects I-11 with the overlapping U.S. highways 93 and 95.

Motorists headed to the Railroad Pass hotel will have to pass their destination and turn around about a mile away at the interchange where U.S. 93 and U.S. 95 split, Illia said.

Drivers headed north on U.S. 93 won't get to use I-11, but traffic lanes will be slightly shifted so that crews can complete the freeway.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 10, 2017, 03:50:04 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 10, 2017, 11:23:03 AM
The mystery of Boulder City Boulevard is solved:

http://bouldercityreview.com/news/where-s-boulevard-new-sign-over-interstate-misnames-roadway


There's an error within the article...
QuoteIn the past, the road, officially U.S. Highway 93, has been designated as State Route 101, Boulder Highway, Nevada Highway and Great Basin Highway, Rowland-Lagan said.

It wouldn't have been State Route 101, as that number doesn't fit geographically with the numbering scheme. I'm pretty sure it carried a FAU 501 designation after the 1976 renumbering (but maybe not signed as SR 501 though).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on August 10, 2017, 07:22:44 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 10, 2017, 11:23:03 AM
The mystery of Boulder City Boulevard is solved:

http://bouldercityreview.com/news/where-s-boulevard-new-sign-over-interstate-misnames-roadway

The article said they were fabricating 4 new signs. Why are they doing that, when they could just green out the Blvd and put Pkwy up? Seems like a waste of money.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 10, 2017, 07:40:17 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 10, 2017, 03:50:04 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 10, 2017, 11:23:03 AM
The mystery of Boulder City Boulevard is solved:

http://bouldercityreview.com/news/where-s-boulevard-new-sign-over-interstate-misnames-roadway


There's an error within the article...
QuoteIn the past, the road, officially U.S. Highway 93, has been designated as State Route 101, Boulder Highway, Nevada Highway and Great Basin Highway, Rowland-Lagan said.

It wouldn't have been State Route 101, as that number doesn't fit geographically with the numbering scheme. I'm pretty sure it carried a FAU 501 designation after the 1976 renumbering (but maybe not signed as SR 501 though).

Since US 93's southern terminus was at US 91 in Glendale, NV through 1935 and wasn't signed through Las Vegas until 1939 -- and US 95 wasn't even commissioned south of Winnemucca, NV until 1939 -- it's indeed possible that the Boulder City "spur" from the US 95 alignment east to the Hoover Dam construction site may have indeed been NV 101 prior to 1939.  I'll leave it to those who are more familiar with the old NV state highway network to inform us just what current US 95 was designated south of Las Vegas prior to '39.

P.S. -- A little research indicated that US 95 from Tonopah south to the CA state line south of Searchlight was originally NV state route 5.  Wasn't able to determine the true history of NV 101 from that source, however.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: gonealookin on August 10, 2017, 08:20:47 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 10, 2017, 07:40:17 PM
Since US 93's southern terminus was at US 91 in Glendale, NV through 1935 and wasn't signed through Las Vegas until 1939 -- and US 95 wasn't even commissioned south of Winnemucca, NV until 1939 -- it's indeed possible that the Boulder City "spur" from the US 95 alignment east to the Hoover Dam construction site may have indeed been NV 101 prior to 1939.  I'll leave it to those who are more familiar with the old NV state highway network to inform us just what current US 95 was designated south of Las Vegas prior to '39.

P.S. -- A little research indicated that US 95 from Tonopah south to the CA state line south of Searchlight was originally NV state route 5.  Wasn't able to determine the true history of NV 101 from that source, however.

The 1937 State Road Map (PDF) (https://www.nevadadot.com/home/showdocument?id=1199) shows current US 93 as NV 26 (from the present US 93/95 split to the center of Boulder City), NV 42 (from Boulder City to the dam), and the whole thing is US 466.  US 95 was US 466/NV 5 from downtown Las Vegas to the 93/95 split; and the continuation of NV 5 all the way down past Searchlight to the CA line.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 10, 2017, 09:05:16 PM
Quote from: gonealookin on August 10, 2017, 08:20:47 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 10, 2017, 07:40:17 PM
Since US 93's southern terminus was at US 91 in Glendale, NV through 1935 and wasn't signed through Las Vegas until 1939 -- and US 95 wasn't even commissioned south of Winnemucca, NV until 1939 -- it's indeed possible that the Boulder City "spur" from the US 95 alignment east to the Hoover Dam construction site may have indeed been NV 101 prior to 1939.  I'll leave it to those who are more familiar with the old NV state highway network to inform us just what current US 95 was designated south of Las Vegas prior to '39.

P.S. -- A little research indicated that US 95 from Tonopah south to the CA state line south of Searchlight was originally NV state route 5.  Wasn't able to determine the true history of NV 101 from that source, however.

The 1937 State Road Map (PDF) (https://www.nevadadot.com/home/showdocument?id=1199) shows current US 93 as NV 26 (from the present US 93/95 split to the center of Boulder City), NV 42 (from Boulder City to the dam), and the whole thing is US 466.  US 95 was US 466/NV 5 from downtown Las Vegas to the 93/95 split; and the continuation of NV 5 all the way down past Searchlight to the CA line.

And no "101" to be found anywhere.  Unless someone can come up with something more than 80 years old that would indicate otherwise, I'm guessing it's just a misreading of an old map or log somewhere along the line.  BTW, thanks for supplying the old map -- it's interesting to see what NV considered primary roads back then (as in why old NV 2 suddenly took off over an old dirt road to the UT state line rather than remaining on US 6 or US 50).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: FLRoads on August 11, 2017, 05:00:24 PM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 03, 2017, 11:37:50 AM
Some of the signing has started. This is southbound on current 515/93/95, but note the exit numbers (15A and 15B). Also, it looks like the 93 mainline will be moved over to the new freeway. (Apologies for the photo quality; I was standing way over on the bike/ped path.)

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fn7RHkPb.jpg&hash=eee35ff1e0ddd9521fd4b95e6980c208b117f126)

Does anyone know if the BUSINESS annotation on the guide sign for U.S. 93 (Boulder City Parkway) will be temporarily covered up in the interim, since southbound traffic (and U.S. 93 & 95) will still be defaulting onto the flyover ramp?

On a side note, I was out there the week of July 17th, and these signs had yet to be bolted to the sign bridge assembly. Also, I did not see any other signage for I-11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 11, 2017, 11:58:02 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 10, 2017, 09:05:16 PM
Quote from: gonealookin on August 10, 2017, 08:20:47 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 10, 2017, 07:40:17 PM
Since US 93's southern terminus was at US 91 in Glendale, NV through 1935 and wasn't signed through Las Vegas until 1939 -- and US 95 wasn't even commissioned south of Winnemucca, NV until 1939 -- it's indeed possible that the Boulder City "spur" from the US 95 alignment east to the Hoover Dam construction site may have indeed been NV 101 prior to 1939.  I'll leave it to those who are more familiar with the old NV state highway network to inform us just what current US 95 was designated south of Las Vegas prior to '39.

P.S. -- A little research indicated that US 95 from Tonopah south to the CA state line south of Searchlight was originally NV state route 5.  Wasn't able to determine the true history of NV 101 from that source, however.

The 1937 State Road Map (PDF) (https://www.nevadadot.com/home/showdocument?id=1199) shows current US 93 as NV 26 (from the present US 93/95 split to the center of Boulder City), NV 42 (from Boulder City to the dam), and the whole thing is US 466.  US 95 was US 466/NV 5 from downtown Las Vegas to the 93/95 split; and the continuation of NV 5 all the way down past Searchlight to the CA line.

And no "101" to be found anywhere.  Unless someone can come up with something more than 80 years old that would indicate otherwise, I'm guessing it's just a misreading of an old map or log somewhere along the line.  BTW, thanks for supplying the old map -- it's interesting to see what NV considered primary roads back then (as in why old NV 2 suddenly took off over an old dirt road to the UT state line rather than remaining on US 6 or US 50).

The highest state route number assigned legislatively prior to the 1976 renumbering was 93, except for the special case of 140 (a renumbering of other routes to form present-day 140 under the Winnemucca to the Sea highway effort). Three-digit numbering scheme introduced in the 1976 renumbering grouped numbers geographically (by county alphabetically) within a revamped federal aid highway system numbering. Numbers in the low 100s would have been in Carson City, 115-120s in Churchill County...Clark County's lowest number in this part of the system is 146.  However, getting to federal aid urban routes, the numbers start at 500s and go through cities alphabetically--Boulder City is first with low 500s.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 12, 2017, 01:08:49 AM
Quote from: roadfro on August 11, 2017, 11:58:02 PM
The highest state route number assigned legislatively prior to the 1976 renumbering was 93, except for the special case of 140 (a renumbering of other routes to form present-day 140 under the Winnemucca to the Sea highway effort). Three-digit numbering scheme introduced in the 1976 renumbering grouped numbers geographically (by county alphabetically) within a revamped federal aid highway system numbering. Numbers in the low 100s would have been in Carson City, 115-120s in Churchill County...Clark County's lowest number in this part of the system is 146.  However, getting to federal aid urban routes, the numbers start at 500s and go through cities alphabetically--Boulder City is first with low 500s.

That scheme -- county-by-county arranged alphabetically -- is essentially duplicated in Wyoming as well -- except for the fact that Wyoming "grandfathered" in a number of previously established state routes that don't fit the pattern but which were familiar to travelers.  At least in both states there's some semblance of order and rationality not found in a multitude of other jurisdictions (my own state is the poster child for designation randomization!).  :banghead:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 14, 2017, 08:46:29 PM
Opening has been delayed until Wednesday, just in case you were planning to be out there before sunrise tomorrow:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/opening-of-stretch-of-southbound-i-11-delayed-until-wednesday/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 17, 2017, 11:55:45 AM
Perhaps unsurprisingly, there is so far no I-11 signage at all along the recently opened section of freeway. (Actually, not even US 93 or Bus 93 trailblazers yet, either, except on the BGSs.)

The new ramp from I-11 south to Bus 93 south (which all traffic must currently use) takes you back to the old road just before the existing exit for US 95 south.

Bicycled it early this morning before NDOT extends the "no bikes" zone. :) (If you're thinking of doing likewise, there's a nice new wide shoulder all the way through, and it was actually pleasant to ride.)

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6kgWQoS.jpg&hash=d9ca2e10f7b421f06dd4008f5a6c075260d6b857)


Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 17, 2017, 12:38:46 PM
Lest there be any doubt, though, NDOT engraved "Interstate 11" into the overpasses at US 95 south of the old junction.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on August 17, 2017, 03:35:12 PM
Boulder City Review has a drive-thru video of the open segment on their Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/bouldercityreview/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 17, 2017, 04:27:13 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 17, 2017, 12:38:46 PM
Lest there be any doubt, though, NDOT engraved "Interstate 11" into the overpasses at US 95 south of the old junction.

Got any pictures?  And -- is it a shield replica, or in text (the context of the above statement points toward the latter!)? 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 17, 2017, 04:41:17 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 17, 2017, 04:27:13 PM
Got any pictures?  And -- is it a shield replica, or in text (the context of the above statement points toward the latter!)? 

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlzeYSar.jpg&hash=027a527516de7594232ac5e945ccac1d3a86f98b)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 17, 2017, 05:33:56 PM
I officially nominate the segment of Boulder City Parkway from Railroad Pass to Veterans Memorial Drive to be Interstate 711.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: ilpt4u on August 17, 2017, 06:27:40 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 17, 2017, 05:33:56 PM
I officially nominate the segment of Boulder City Parkway from Railroad Pass to Veterans Memorial Drive to be Interstate 711.
And name it the Craps Freeway?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 18, 2017, 01:25:17 AM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 17, 2017, 04:41:17 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 17, 2017, 04:27:13 PM
Got any pictures?  And -- is it a shield replica, or in text (the context of the above statement points toward the latter!)? 

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlzeYSar.jpg&hash=027a527516de7594232ac5e945ccac1d3a86f98b)

Well, there you have it -- written in stone, so to speak!  BTW, what would you call that color of concrete -- yellow/beige, faux gold, maybe "fool's gold"?  Never seen that particular color before on a highway structure -- maybe a Nevada thing.  And it must have been a relatively mild day for anyone to ride their bike to an interchange out in the desert!  Maybe I'm just a wuss, but Vegas in summertime means that when you're going somewhere, it's in a car with the AC turned way up!
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on August 18, 2017, 08:37:25 AM
Quote from: sparker on August 18, 2017, 01:25:17 AM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 17, 2017, 04:41:17 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 17, 2017, 04:27:13 PM
Got any pictures?  And -- is it a shield replica, or in text (the context of the above statement points toward the latter!)? 

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlzeYSar.jpg&hash=027a527516de7594232ac5e945ccac1d3a86f98b)

Well, there you have it -- written in stone, so to speak!  BTW, what would you call that color of concrete -- yellow/beige, faux gold, maybe "fool's gold"?  Never seen that particular color before on a highway structure -- maybe a Nevada thing.  And it must have been a relatively mild day for anyone to ride their bike to an interchange out in the desert!  Maybe I'm just a wuss, but Vegas in summertime means that when you're going somewhere, it's in a car with the AC turned way up!

I would guess the color of the concrete is because the sun was pretty low in the sky when the picture was taken.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 18, 2017, 11:30:40 AM
Quote from: ilpt4u on August 17, 2017, 06:27:40 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 17, 2017, 05:33:56 PM
I officially nominate the segment of Boulder City Parkway from Railroad Pass to Veterans Memorial Drive to be Interstate 711.
And name it the Craps Freeway?

The irony would be that gambling is illegal in Boulder City.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 18, 2017, 07:08:57 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 18, 2017, 11:30:40 AM
Quote from: ilpt4u on August 17, 2017, 06:27:40 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 17, 2017, 05:33:56 PM
I officially nominate the segment of Boulder City Parkway from Railroad Pass to Veterans Memorial Drive to be Interstate 711.
And name it the Craps Freeway?

The irony would be that gambling is illegal in Boulder City.

Local lore has it that the above situation is a hangover from the days when Boulder City was simply a "construction camp" for Hoover (nee Boulder) Dam; they didn't want the lure of gambling distracting their workers from their various tasks; at this point, since gaming can be obtained a mere couple of miles down the road at Railroad Pass, opening up Boulder City to the "industry" isn't worthwhile for any entities to challenge or look to change the present laws. 

A more cynical take would be that the owner(s) of Railroad Pass casino benefit from having the law in place (preventing local competition!), so they may be keeping an eye on things, possibly funding any efforts required in order to oppose any changes. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 18, 2017, 11:59:40 PM
Your lore is true - the Feds banned gambling and alcohol while Boulder City was a federal "reservation." Booze was eventually legalized. But, BC is still a heavily Mormon town. I think every recent mayor has been LDS. The residents are just in no hurry for their town to change, particularly on this topic.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on September 04, 2017, 08:33:33 AM
Apparently one of the sections of future I-11 is open, but with navigational issues...

http://www.fox5vegas.com/story/36154355/interstate-11-opening-causes-gps-glitch
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: wanderer2575 on September 04, 2017, 09:34:17 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on September 04, 2017, 08:33:33 AM
Apparently one of the sections of future I-11 is open, but with navigational issues...

http://www.fox5vegas.com/story/36154355/interstate-11-opening-causes-gps-glitch

Move along (ha!); nothing to see here.  This happens every time a road configuration changes and GPS systems haven't yet updated (either the service provider hasn't updated the mapbases or the user hasn't updated his/her unit).  Exacerbated because fewer and fewer people have any clue on the concept of studying a road map.  I noted on another thread a few years ago, when Michigan reconfigured the terminus of I-94/I-69 at Port Huron, how dozens of motorists daily found themselves on the Blue Water Bridge heading into Canada because their GPS units hadn't been updated and they refused to follow the new signs.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: ilpt4u on September 04, 2017, 10:39:30 AM
https://goo.gl/maps/Hk5t7evF85D2

And the I-11 Shield has popped up on Google Maps. That makes it official, right? (j/k -- especially since an I-169 shield has appeared in KY recently on Google Maps...)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on September 04, 2017, 02:22:09 PM
Quote from: ilpt4u on September 04, 2017, 10:39:30 AM
https://goo.gl/maps/Hk5t7evF85D2

And the I-11 Shield has popped up on Google Maps. That makes it official, right? (j/k -- especially since an I-169 shield has appeared in KY recently on Google Maps...)

Wow!  Two of them in a row.  I didn't think even reassurance shields were placed that close together!  The ad hoc cadre of Google Map editors must really want to drive the point home that this IS I-11!!!!! :-P
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on December 26, 2017, 02:40:43 PM
A bunch of new I-11 signage has gone up. Some examples:

(https://i.imgur.com/3QdUAwV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/jYBbV5C.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/W7q0Vip.jpg)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on December 26, 2017, 03:52:43 PM
Quote from: Kniwt on December 26, 2017, 02:40:43 PM
A bunch of new I-11 signage has gone up. Some examples:

(https://i.imgur.com/3QdUAwV.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/jYBbV5C.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/W7q0Vip.jpg)

That looks like NB US 95 at the (new) I-11/US 93 interchange.  No pictures from either the ramp from NB 95 to SB 11/93 or anything from the freeway itself as of yet?  Looks like NDOT is chomping at the bit to get the I-11 identity established over the Boulder City bypass as quickly as feasible.  I just wonder if they're any closer to a decision regarding the I-11 alignment through Las Vegas itself. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 28, 2017, 10:10:55 AM
So, when is the Boulder City Bypass expected to open?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: mgk920 on December 28, 2017, 10:53:58 AM
I note how "Interstate 11" has been formed into the concrete of that bridge in the first image.

Mike
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on December 28, 2017, 11:56:36 AM
Is US 93 going to be decommissioned once I-11 is complete?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: LM117 on December 28, 2017, 12:06:46 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 26, 2017, 03:52:43 PM
I just wonder if they're any closer to a decision regarding the I-11 alignment through Las Vegas itself.

Using I-515/US-95 seems like a no-brainer, IMO.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on December 28, 2017, 02:18:04 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 28, 2017, 10:10:55 AM
So, when is the Boulder City Bypass expected to open?

NDOT's Phase 1 (I-515 to US 95) was originally projected to be completed by January 2018. I believe this is still on track–the photos just posted here make it seem like they'll reach that target.

RTC's Phase 2 (US 95 to SR 172/Hoover Dam) is just projected to be complete "in 2018". I would expect third or fourth quarter.

Quote from: roadguy2 on December 28, 2017, 11:56:36 AM
Is US 93 going to be decommissioned once I-11 is complete?

No. You can see in the images that US 93 will be signed alongside I-11. US 93 extends beyond the extent of I-11 in both directions, so there is no need to decommission it at this time.

Quote from: LM117 on December 28, 2017, 12:06:46 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 26, 2017, 03:52:43 PM
I just wonder if they're any closer to a decision regarding the I-11 alignment through Las Vegas itself.
Using I-515/US-95 seems like a no-brainer, IMO.

Discussion for another thread, but I haven't heard any news on this. I feel that the 95/thru-town corridor and the 215/west corridor both have merits, depending on what they want the desired traffic flow to be.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on December 28, 2017, 07:40:04 PM
Quote from: roadfro on December 28, 2017, 02:18:04 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on December 28, 2017, 11:56:36 AM
Is US 93 going to be decommissioned once I-11 is complete?

No. You can see in the images that US 93 will be signed alongside I-11. US 93 extends beyond the extent of I-11 in both directions, so there is no need to decommission it at this time.

Well, obviously 11 and 93 are co-signed in those pictures, but what about when I-11 has been completed down to I-10 in the future? Is that still in the plans, or is the plan now to have I-11 go only to Kingman?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on December 28, 2017, 10:54:56 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on December 28, 2017, 07:40:04 PM
Quote from: roadfro on December 28, 2017, 02:18:04 PM
Quote from: roadguy2 on December 28, 2017, 11:56:36 AM
Is US 93 going to be decommissioned once I-11 is complete?

No. You can see in the images that US 93 will be signed alongside I-11. US 93 extends beyond the extent of I-11 in both directions, so there is no need to decommission it at this time.

Well, obviously 11 and 93 are co-signed in those pictures, but what about when I-11 has been completed down to I-10 in the future? Is that still in the plans, or is the plan now to have I-11 go only to Kingman?

The medium-term plans still call for I-11 to continue down US 93 to Wickenburg; an alignment to or adjacent to Phoenix metro has yet TBD.  It's very likely that US 93 will continue to be co-signed with I-11 until the entire distance between Wickenburg and Las Vegas is Interstate-grade freeway.  Between the Colorado River and Kingman the present facility can quite readily be upgraded to Interstate standards; as a virtual "SIU" that segment is likely to be completed before the section south of I-40, some of which remains a 2-lane facility.  That segment is likely to be done in stages:  bring the basic alignment up to 4 lanes (divided, of course) and build the grade separations/interchanges at a later time.  The first of those phases has been underway for some time now; about half of US 93 between US 60 and I-40 is 4-lane expressway with the remainder programmed for similar expansion.  Figure somewhere around 2025 before it's fully 4-lane, and considerably later in regards to a full-fledged I-11.   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on December 30, 2017, 12:51:18 PM
MOD NOTE: Three replies dated 12/28/2017 & 12/29/2017 were moved from this thread to the  "Interstate 11 alignment, through Vegas and points north" thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7881.msg2287755#msg2287755). This was done to keep discussion/speculation on potential routes of I-11 contained to that thread, and keep focus of this thread on the progress of this specific project. –Roadfro
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on January 08, 2018, 09:08:40 PM
The entire segment should open by October according to this article: https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/news-columns/road-warrior/another-small-segment-of-interstate-11-opens-feb-1/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on January 24, 2018, 09:49:27 AM
A northbound I-11 segment is supposed to open Saturday 1/27, a few days ahead of schedule
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/next-section-of-interstate-11-slated-to-open-saturday-morning/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on January 24, 2018, 11:51:25 AM
Quote from: roadfro on January 24, 2018, 09:49:27 AM
A northbound I-11 segment is supposed to open Saturday 1/27, a few days ahead of schedule
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/next-section-of-interstate-11-slated-to-open-saturday-morning/

The article cited above was reprinted in today's AASHTO DTU; the picture accompanying the article seems to answer one of my previous questions:  the ultra-narrow kerning of the double 1's in the previously-shown reassurance shield may not be typical; the trailblazer shields (albeit smaller) at the US 95 interchange between Boulder City and Railroad Pass look to have the more typical wider spacing between the integers.  IMO, the shields look better that way -- and are easier to read at speed (especially for us old farts!).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on January 31, 2018, 01:22:58 AM
I-11 is now open on the NB side. A couple video clips:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLBo8SB2VLo&t=27s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5sIbjIh5jc
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Interstate Trav on February 02, 2018, 08:30:10 PM
It's exciting to see a new Interstate being built.  It will be like the 15 in California for Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on February 18, 2018, 04:54:29 PM
Northbound on-ramp from Railroad Pass Casino Road scheduled to open Tuesday 2/20. This will result in a bit more usage of new northbound I-11 lanes.
https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/section-of-i-11-to-open-tuesday-at-railroad-pass/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on March 10, 2018, 07:31:23 PM
Here's another video of the future I-11:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vw5gXymMGU
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on March 10, 2018, 07:51:52 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on March 10, 2018, 07:31:23 PM
Here's another video of the future I-11:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vw5gXymMGU

Let's go rent a Shelby Cobra Super Snake and see how fast we can go!  So much empty road just begs to be driven.  When does this section of I-11 open up?

Rick
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: theroadwayone on March 11, 2018, 01:11:43 AM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on March 10, 2018, 07:31:23 PM
Here's another video of the future I-11:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vw5gXymMGU
I checked Google Earth recently, and there's two streaks of something that resembles road bed in the desert.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Papa Emeritus on April 15, 2018, 04:37:04 PM
On Friday, a 364 foot long railroad overpass above I-11 opened, re connecting Boulder City to the nation's railroad system. The line from Henderson to Boulder City was severed many years ago. Here's a link:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/restored-rail-line-reconnects-southern-nevada-cities/

The article says another 2.5 miles of I-11 will open in May, with the remainder of the freeway to the Colorado River opening in October.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on April 17, 2018, 01:29:26 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on March 10, 2018, 07:31:23 PM
Here's another video of the future I-11:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vw5gXymMGU

Be careful out there. That NOA sign refers to naturally-occurring asbestos.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Rothman on April 18, 2018, 12:53:10 AM
Heh.  Worked as a paralegal in asbestos litigation.  Everyone sucks in millions of fibers of it over a lifetime no matter where they are.  Just don't suck in crocidolite or other stiffer fibers that used to be found in very high temp insulation over a long period and you'll be fine. :D
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on April 23, 2018, 05:47:56 PM
Any word on exactly when the section of I-11 between Railroad Pass Casino Road and US 95 will open & US 95 rerouted to use this new section of freeway? News regarding this pending opening has been difficult to locate.

I also see that the section of existing US 95 which will be orphaned by this opening, between the new I-11 interchange and the existing one at Boulder City Parkway (current US 93/future Business US 93), is to become unsigned Nevada S.R. 173 (though it appears that NDOT got the mileage for it wrong on the January 2018 edition of their State Maintained Highways list).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on April 24, 2018, 02:42:27 PM
MOD NOTE: Three posts dated 4/23/2018 & 4/24/2018 were moved from this thread to the thread Interstate 11 alignment, through Vegas and points north (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7881.msg2321245#msg2321245). This was done to keep speculation about the future I-11 alignments contained to that thread, and keep this thread focused on the specific I-11 project under construction in Boulder City. –Roadfro
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on April 24, 2018, 03:16:03 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on April 23, 2018, 05:47:56 PM
Any word on exactly when the section of I-11 between Railroad Pass Casino Road and US 95 will open & US 95 rerouted to use this new section of freeway? News regarding this pending opening has been difficult to locate.

I also see that the section of existing US 95 which will be orphaned by this opening, between the new I-11 interchange and the existing one at Boulder City Parkway (current US 93/future Business US 93), is to become unsigned Nevada S.R. 173 (though it appears that NDOT got the mileage for it wrong on the January 2018 edition of their State Maintained Highways list).

I haven't seen a confirmed open date, but it should be relatively soon.

Not sure if the old section of US 95 that has become SR 173 will be signed or unsigned–it's an interesting signage question as there are merits for doing either way (I haven't been out there to check since the new year). I'm more curious about whether old US 93 will have a new state highway number or recycle one of the old numbers that it may have had in the federal aid numbering system (500 or 501). NDOT's log actually has two entries for SR 173, with one appearing to be erroneous, but still shows US 93 in Boulder City and not moved to the I-11 alignment.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on April 24, 2018, 04:28:45 PM
Quote from: roadfro on April 24, 2018, 03:16:03 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on April 23, 2018, 05:47:56 PM
Any word on exactly when the section of I-11 between Railroad Pass Casino Road and US 95 will open & US 95 rerouted to use this new section of freeway? News regarding this pending opening has been difficult to locate.

I also see that the section of existing US 95 which will be orphaned by this opening, between the new I-11 interchange and the existing one at Boulder City Parkway (current US 93/future Business US 93), is to become unsigned Nevada S.R. 173 (though it appears that NDOT got the mileage for it wrong on the January 2018 edition of their State Maintained Highways list).

I haven't seen a confirmed open date, but it should be relatively soon.

Not sure if the old section of US 95 that has become SR 173 will be signed or unsigned–it's an interesting signage question as there are merits for doing either way (I haven't been out there to check since the new year). I'm more curious about whether old US 93 will have a new state highway number or recycle one of the old numbers that it may have had in the federal aid numbering system (500 or 501). NDOT's log actually has two entries for SR 173, with one appearing to be erroneous, but still shows US 93 in Boulder City and not moved to the I-11 alignment.
The reports I have seen all said "April 2018" for the US 95 interchange partial opening, which is why I asked since the month is almost over. The recent photos I have viewed do not show any State Route signage along the "orphin" section of 95, but do show "TO Business US 93 - Boulder City" on one of the BGSs. The good news is that when the re-routing of 95 is done, anyone heading NB who misses the new turnoff can easily use the "soon to be OLD" route to get back on track. But SB US 95 travelers had better not miss Exit 14 once the full bypass is completed, unless they want to make a 25-mile side trip! Probably a good thing that it will be a mandatory exit for a few months first.

I missed the "second" listing for SR 173, I'll have to go back and review that document again... thanks for the info! I think NDOT intentionally kept US 93 documented on its present routing since it will remain there for most of 2018, until the scheduled October opening of Phase II. Just wish they would provide mileage breakouts at major junctions rather than at urban area limits (or in addition to them) on their State Maintained Highways list. It's difficult to compile a continuous milepoint breakdown for the various routes from the data as presented in its present format.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on April 25, 2018, 07:45:12 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on April 24, 2018, 04:28:45 PM
Quote from: roadfro on April 24, 2018, 03:16:03 PM
I haven't seen a confirmed open date, but it should be relatively soon.

Not sure if the old section of US 95 that has become SR 173 will be signed or unsigned–it's an interesting signage question as there are merits for doing either way (I haven't been out there to check since the new year). I'm more curious about whether old US 93 will have a new state highway number or recycle one of the old numbers that it may have had in the federal aid numbering system (500 or 501). NDOT's log actually has two entries for SR 173, with one appearing to be erroneous, but still shows US 93 in Boulder City and not moved to the I-11 alignment.
The reports I have seen all said "April 2018" for the US 95 interchange partial opening, which is why I asked since the month is almost over. The recent photos I have viewed do not show any State Route signage along the "orphin" section of 95, but do show "TO Business US 93 - Boulder City" on one of the BGSs. The good news is that when the re-routing of 95 is done, anyone heading NB who misses the new turnoff can easily use the "soon to be OLD" route to get back on track. But SB US 95 travelers had better not miss Exit 14 once the full bypass is completed, unless they want to make a 25-mile side trip! Probably a good thing that it will be a mandatory exit for a few months first.

I missed the "second" listing for SR 173, I'll have to go back and review that document again... thanks for the info! I think NDOT intentionally kept US 93 documented on its present routing since it will remain there for most of 2018, until the scheduled October opening of Phase II. Just wish they would provide mileage breakouts at major junctions rather than at urban area limits (or in addition to them) on their State Maintained Highways list. It's difficult to compile a continuous milepoint breakdown for the various routes from the data as presented in its present format.

I just returned from a trip to the Vegas area for work, but unfortunately didn't have opportunity to do any roadgeeking down that way like I wanted.

Now that I'm thinking about it, and having an idea of the final configuration of the Hoover Dam interchange, I'm wondering if old US 93/future US 93 Business will be designated as an extension of SR 172 (whether signed or unsigned).

I agree with your sentiments on the NDOT SMH book. It is difficult to get accurate mileages of some US routes in Nevada because sections overlapping with another US route or Interstate are not called out separately.

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: silverback1065 on April 28, 2018, 11:08:34 PM
i need to get one of these shields one day, 11 is my favorite number!  :)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on May 01, 2018, 11:06:52 PM
Link to sneak peak of future I-11:

http://www.lasvegasnow.com/news/8-news-now-gets-sneak-peek-of-new-alignment-of-interstate-11/1152512952
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on May 02, 2018, 08:53:03 PM
Boulder City NV Facebook page. Their video shows entire alignment going southbound:

https://www.facebook.com/bouldercitynv/videos/2064675310213908/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 03, 2018, 06:18:06 AM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.

The public lands to which the narrator is referring is the Lake Mead National Recreational Area; while the legal equivalent of a national park, these facilities tend to feature more access and less restriction regarding what can be built within the grounds.  The O'Callaghan-Tillman Bridge, opened 7 years ago, was the first section of this overall route to be built and opened; it's fully contained within the NRA; there was little or no publicized controversy regarding the bridge; the response was more along the lines of "I didn't think anyone could build a bridge over that canyon!"  When I-11 eventually extends fully into AZ, that bridge will be the highest on the Interstate system.   IMHO, while increasingly a rarity in this country, a massive endeavor such as I-11 does show at least a commitment to improvement.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Alps on May 05, 2018, 10:34:55 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on April 28, 2018, 11:08:34 PM
i need to get one of these shields one day, 11 is my favorite number!  :)
I always knew I liked you. Who are you?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on May 06, 2018, 02:19:33 PM
So I hear the US 95 to US 93 section (Phase 2) of the Boulder City Bypass is well ahead of schedule, with only the reconfigured tie-in at Nevada (Hoover Dam) Interchange left to go. Are they now just gonna wait until that is ready to open the short stretch between Railroad Pass Casino Road and US 95? What's the holdup there, it was supposed to be opened to traffic in April?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 04:56:55 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.
Any ways we can jump start that attitude?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 06:35:22 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 03, 2018, 06:18:06 AM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.

The public lands to which the narrator is referring is the Lake Mead National Recreational Area; while the legal equivalent of a national park, these facilities tend to feature more access and less restriction regarding what can be built within the grounds.  The O'Callaghan-Tillman Bridge, opened 7 years ago, was the first section of this overall route to be built and opened; it's fully contained within the NRA; there was little or no publicized controversy regarding the bridge; the response was more along the lines of "I didn't think anyone could build a bridge over that canyon!"  When I-11 eventually extends fully into AZ, that bridge will be the highest on the Interstate system.   IMHO, while increasingly a rarity in this country, a massive endeavor such as I-11 does show at least a commitment to improvement.
I'm certainly not trying to advocate for the destruction of our national parks by putting interstates through them, but the attitude of the author of that article is shared too often. Would be nice to see a new Bay Bridge happen in 10 years or at least starting in 8, but I doubt it will even start for at least 15 or 20 years and that is very optimistic. Can't even build a 4 mile tunnel in LA. Have you seen some of the projects going on in Japan, Spain, Norway, and China? That's just a few examples but they are staring to put us to shame with some of their projects.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 06:38:12 PM
Quote from: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 04:56:55 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.
Any ways we can jump start that attitude?
I'm not a politician so my ideas will sound rather amateurish, but we still need to keep the environment in mind when building infrastructure but to a lesser extent, IMO, with major projects that are a big priority. Get rid of the bureaucratic red tape and don't let NIMBY's have as much as a say as they currently do. I don't know how to achieve those things, but I'm sure there is a way.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 08:39:01 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 06:38:12 PM
Quote from: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 04:56:55 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.
Any ways we can jump start that attitude?
I'm not a politician so my ideas will sound rather amateurish, but we still need to keep the environment in mind when building infrastructure but to a lesser extent, IMO, with major projects that are a big priority. Get rid of the bureaucratic red tape and don't let NIMBY's have as much as a say as they currently do. I don't know how to achieve those things, but I'm sure there is a way.
I'm not a politician either, but they do sound like good ideas. However, I don't see such changes coming without a big fight. Old ways of doing things die hard, so that won't be for a while.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 09:53:53 PM
Quote from: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 08:39:01 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 06:38:12 PM
Quote from: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 04:56:55 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.
Any ways we can jump start that attitude?
I'm not a politician so my ideas will sound rather amateurish, but we still need to keep the environment in mind when building infrastructure but to a lesser extent, IMO, with major projects that are a big priority. Get rid of the bureaucratic red tape and don't let NIMBY's have as much as a say as they currently do. I don't know how to achieve those things, but I'm sure there is a way.
I'm not a politician either, but they do sound like good ideas. However, I don't see such changes coming without a big fight. Old ways of doing things die hard, so that won't be for a while.
I just wonder when this all started. Surely it wasn't this hard to get things like the Golden Gate Bridge back then.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on May 07, 2018, 11:11:17 AM
Quote from: SSR_317 on May 06, 2018, 02:19:33 PM
So I hear the US 95 to US 93 section (Phase 2) of the Boulder City Bypass is well ahead of schedule, with only the reconfigured tie-in at Nevada (Hoover Dam) Interchange left to go. Are they now just gonna wait until that is ready to open the short stretch between Railroad Pass Casino Road and US 95? What's the holdup there, it was supposed to be opened to traffic in April?

There's probably something related to last-minute punch list details or in coordination with Phase 2 (I believe the majority of the US interchange work lies within the Phase 2 contract, so separate contractor and oversight). As far as I'm aware, it has always been said that the new alignment would be open from Henderson to the US 95 interchange at the conclusion of Phase 1.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on May 07, 2018, 02:21:58 PM
When the bypass is complete are they going to sign I-11 from the state line to the 215/515 split?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: theroadwayone on May 07, 2018, 02:48:08 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 09:53:53 PM
Quote from: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 08:39:01 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 06, 2018, 06:38:12 PM
Quote from: theroadwayone on May 06, 2018, 04:56:55 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 03, 2018, 01:29:55 AM
"The 15 mile stretch of interstate goes through national park and we just can't do that kind of work anymore"  

Why? America is really loosing its "we can build anything"  mentality that made this country the envy of the world.
Any ways we can jump start that attitude?
I'm not a politician so my ideas will sound rather amateurish, but we still need to keep the environment in mind when building infrastructure but to a lesser extent, IMO, with major projects that are a big priority. Get rid of the bureaucratic red tape and don't let NIMBY's have as much as a say as they currently do. I don't know how to achieve those things, but I'm sure there is a way.
I'm not a politician either, but they do sound like good ideas. However, I don't see such changes coming without a big fight. Old ways of doing things die hard, so that won't be for a while.
I just wonder when this all started. Surely it wasn't this hard to get things like the Golden Gate Bridge back then.
Probably back in the '60s-early '70s.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Bobby5280 on May 07, 2018, 03:33:06 PM
The United States has created an entire food chain of bureaucrats, attorneys and other players that suck as much "blood" (money) out of a government funded infrastructure project as possible. All the studies, hearings, lawsuits, procedural delays and other crap just results in a whole lot of people not actually designing or building the highway getting paid big bucks. You can build a giant suspension bridge in China with state of the art engineering, top quality materials and workmanship for 1/10th the cost it would run in the United States. The legal and bureaucratic hang-ups are one of the biggest things driving up those costs here. We honestly don't have any national, big picture focus in the United States anymore. People can wave the flag all they like, but it's really a lot of BS. Our culture here in the United States anymore is "every man for himself." So many people involved in big infrastructure projects in the United States don't appear like they care about the project itself. They're just looking to get paid whether the project gets built or not.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kkt on May 07, 2018, 04:20:07 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on May 07, 2018, 03:33:06 PM
The United States has created an entire food chain of bureaucrats, attorneys and other players that suck as much "blood" (money) out of a government funded infrastructure project as possible. All the studies, hearings, lawsuits, procedural delays and other crap just results in a whole lot of people not actually designing or building the highway getting paid big bucks. You can build a giant suspension bridge in China with state of the art engineering, top quality materials and workmanship for 1/10th the cost it would run in the United States. The legal and bureaucratic hang-ups are one of the biggest things driving up those costs here. We honestly don't have any national, big picture focus in the United States anymore. People can wave the flag all they like, but it's really a lot of BS. Our culture here in the United States anymore is "every man for himself." So many people involved in big infrastructure projects in the United States don't appear like they care about the project itself. They're just looking to get paid whether the project gets built or not.

Sure, it's amazing how cheap you can build when no one who has any brains opposes what the government wants to do, and there's no eminent domain process...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on May 07, 2018, 04:56:12 PM
Quote from: kkt on May 07, 2018, 04:20:07 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on May 07, 2018, 03:33:06 PM
The United States has created an entire food chain of bureaucrats, attorneys and other players that suck as much "blood" (money) out of a government funded infrastructure project as possible. All the studies, hearings, lawsuits, procedural delays and other crap just results in a whole lot of people not actually designing or building the highway getting paid big bucks. You can build a giant suspension bridge in China with state of the art engineering, top quality materials and workmanship for 1/10th the cost it would run in the United States. The legal and bureaucratic hang-ups are one of the biggest things driving up those costs here. We honestly don't have any national, big picture focus in the United States anymore. People can wave the flag all they like, but it's really a lot of BS. Our culture here in the United States anymore is "every man for himself." So many people involved in big infrastructure projects in the United States don't appear like they care about the project itself. They're just looking to get paid whether the project gets built or not.

Sure, it's amazing how cheap you can build when no one who has any brains opposes what the government wants to do, and there's no eminent domain process...
I am sure he knows this. I don't think he's advocating for that either, not to put words in people's mouths. But there needs to be middle ground here.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: skluth on May 07, 2018, 05:44:34 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 07, 2018, 04:56:12 PM
Quote from: kkt on May 07, 2018, 04:20:07 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on May 07, 2018, 03:33:06 PM
The United States has created an entire food chain of bureaucrats, attorneys and other players that suck as much "blood" (money) out of a government funded infrastructure project as possible. All the studies, hearings, lawsuits, procedural delays and other crap just results in a whole lot of people not actually designing or building the highway getting paid big bucks. You can build a giant suspension bridge in China with state of the art engineering, top quality materials and workmanship for 1/10th the cost it would run in the United States. The legal and bureaucratic hang-ups are one of the biggest things driving up those costs here. We honestly don't have any national, big picture focus in the United States anymore. People can wave the flag all they like, but it's really a lot of BS. Our culture here in the United States anymore is "every man for himself." So many people involved in big infrastructure projects in the United States don't appear like they care about the project itself. They're just looking to get paid whether the project gets built or not.

Sure, it's amazing how cheap you can build when no one who has any brains opposes what the government wants to do, and there's no eminent domain process...
I am sure he knows this. I don't think he's advocating for that either, not to put words in people's mouths. But there needs to be middle ground here.

That's basically where I'm at. I see the need for environmental impact statements (I even trained in college to write them), NIMBYs to protect important and historic properties, and the ability to stop projects when something of significance is discovered during construction. I can also see the need to build new highways including limited highway expansion in parks, especially national recreation areas where a highway improvement funnels traffic to and through areas that don't much affect the appeal of the park (like Lake Mead). The process needs to be fixed regardless as it's entirely broken.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Bobby5280 on May 07, 2018, 09:37:43 PM
There's nothing wrong with doing public hearings, environmental studies, etc. But there really is no need whatsoever for a proposed highway project to be hung up literally for decades by a never ending soap opera of court room proceedings (which endlessly pay a bunch of bureaucrats a lot of money for literally producing nothing of value).

The United States is so badly stuck in the mud, beyond axles deep, with this nonsense. It practically takes a miracle for the US to build any big things anymore. Meanwhile other countries (like China) for instance are building up their infrastructure at a pace we haven't come close to matching in over 50 years. Our citizens do so much flag waving, talk about patriotism and how the U-S-of-A is the best at everything. They act like it's impossible for our nation not to be the most powerful country on the planet, even though the US has been in that position for only 70-100 years, depending on how you measure such an arguably subjective thing. Other nations are going to sneak right on past us while we're busy patting ourselves on the back. We already have a pretty serious short fall of engineers in this nation. If most of the growth of massive construction projects is happening on other continents our best and brightest in the construction and engineering fields are going to move where the action is.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: theroadwayone on May 08, 2018, 12:35:35 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on May 07, 2018, 09:37:43 PM
There's nothing wrong with doing public hearings, environmental studies, etc. But there really is no need whatsoever for a proposed highway project to be hung up literally for decades by a never ending soap opera of court room proceedings (which endlessly pay a bunch of bureaucrats a lot of money for literally producing nothing of value).

The United States is so badly stuck in the mud, beyond axles deep, with this nonsense. It practically takes a miracle for the US to build any big things anymore. Meanwhile other countries (like China) for instance are building up their infrastructure at a pace we haven't come close to matching in over 50 years. Our citizens do so much flag waving, talk about patriotism and how the U-S-of-A is the best at everything. They act like it's impossible for our nation not to be the most powerful country on the planet, even though the US has been in that position for only 70-100 years, depending on how you measure such an arguably subjective thing. Other nations are going to sneak right on past us while we're busy patting ourselves on the back. We already have a pretty serious short fall of engineers in this nation. If most of the growth of massive construction projects is happening on other continents our best and brightest in the construction and engineering fields are going to move where the action is.
I'd like to drink to that.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kkt on May 08, 2018, 12:49:38 PM
I do think parks deserve strong protection, however National Recreation Areas are not parks.  Some are under the National Park Service but many are under the Forest Service or BLM.  The lakes created by dams are not nature to be preserved - the dams are artificial and require maintenance and roads, the desert oasis is artificial, much of the recreation on them is power boats.  None of that is bad, but it's not some pristine wilderness where a highway is going to disturb nature.

Most of the places new roads are desirable are NOT parks or wilderness areas, contrary to the Fictional Highways plans of some.  The most common problem is urban or suburban areas where no ROW has been set aside, and assembling a ROW now would be terribly expensive and unpopular.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 08, 2018, 05:31:45 PM
Quote from: kkt on May 08, 2018, 12:49:38 PM
I do think parks deserve strong protection, however National Recreation Areas are not parks.  Some are under the National Park Service but many are under the Forest Service or BLM.  The lakes created by dams are not nature to be preserved - the dams are artificial and require maintenance and roads, the desert oasis is artificial, much of the recreation on them is power boats.  None of that is bad, but it's not some pristine wilderness where a highway is going to disturb nature.

Most of the places new roads are desirable are NOT parks or wilderness areas, contrary to the Fictional Highways plans of some.  The most common problem is urban or suburban areas where no ROW has been set aside, and assembling a ROW now would be terribly expensive and unpopular.


In the case of the particular area traversed by I-11, access to Lake Mead and the Colorado River gorge downstream from Hoover Dam has been longstanding, starting with US 466 (with US 93 added later) over the top of the dam back in the '30's when the structure was completed.  That area has been used for recreation for over 80 years; precedent has long been set.  Ironically, the presence of the O'Callaghan/Tillman I-11 bridge may even have the effect of reducing the "casual" use of the recreational area inasmuch as it provides an efficient through-traffic bypass of the former dam-top US 93 -- where drivers were pretty much forced to slog through the heart of the recreational area (and many of them would actually stop to get out and take photos or walk across the dam if not to actually take a tour of the dam itself -- hard to resist at 15mph).  But if one is on their way to Vegas from Phoenix or I-40 points, it's now easy to just slide by the dam and recreational area -- and even easier once Boulder City is bypassed (for better or worse, just the thing for those destination-oriented travelers!).  The rec area, the dam, and Lake Mead in general, will likely become a deliberate destination rather than a "as long as we're here....." sideshow.     
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Bobby5280 on May 09, 2018, 12:25:37 AM
Another thing worth mentioning about these parks, roads aren't the biggest enemy. It's the people in the parks. People throw trash all over the place like they don't give a damn. And then they'll deface all sorts of things, like very old trees or even an iconic rock formation many thousands of years old. A highway that carries some of these turds around the preserve, encouraging them not to stop and get home faster, might be a good thing.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on May 09, 2018, 03:03:05 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on May 07, 2018, 02:21:58 PM
When the bypass is complete are they going to sign I-11 from the state line to the 215/515 split?
Yes, I recall seeing a separate contract listed somewhere on the NDOT website that deals with the re-signing of I-215 between the Henderson Spaghetti Bowl and the start of the Boulder City Bypass at the Foothills grade separation (Paradise Hills Dr), and it is funded for completion in 2018. Not sure if that contract covers the 2 miles of US 93 freeway from the Bridge to the Nevada (Hoover Dam) Interchange, but that may be or may not be included in the BCB Phase II project budget. But by the end of the year it will likely all be signed as I-11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 09, 2018, 04:35:49 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on May 09, 2018, 03:03:05 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on May 07, 2018, 02:21:58 PM
When the bypass is complete are they going to sign I-11 from the state line to the 215/515 split?
Yes, I recall seeing a separate contract listed somewhere on the NDOT website that deals with the re-signing of I-215 between the Henderson Spaghetti Bowl and the start of the Boulder City Bypass at the Foothills grade separation (Paradise Hills Dr), and it is funded for completion in 2018. Not sure if that contract covers the 2 miles of US 93 freeway from the Bridge to the Nevada (Hoover Dam) Interchange, but that may be or may not be included in the BCB Phase II project budget. But by the end of the year it will likely all be signed as I-11.

Does anyone know if AZ is planning to sign their portion of the freeway approach to the O'Callaghan/Tillman bridge as I-11? 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: silverback1065 on May 10, 2018, 07:40:07 AM
I agree with most of the sentiment over the environment, I want to preserve it as much as possible, but some things they make us do are just a waste of time, and just make the project cost more.  I can't tell you how many permits I have had to file for small projects that will not adversely affect the environment, I wish more nuance were put into the projects that require them.  For example, a simple sidewalk job should not need a rule 5 permit, but a new terrain route like I-11 would. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on May 11, 2018, 07:18:59 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 09, 2018, 04:35:49 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on May 09, 2018, 03:03:05 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on May 07, 2018, 02:21:58 PM
When the bypass is complete are they going to sign I-11 from the state line to the 215/515 split?
Yes, I recall seeing a separate contract listed somewhere on the NDOT website that deals with the re-signing of I-215 between the Henderson Spaghetti Bowl and the start of the Boulder City Bypass at the Foothills grade separation (Paradise Hills Dr), and it is funded for completion in 2018. Not sure if that contract covers the 2 miles of US 93 freeway from the Bridge to the Nevada (Hoover Dam) Interchange, but that may be or may not be included in the BCB Phase II project budget. But by the end of the year it will likely all be signed as I-11.

Does anyone know if AZ is planning to sign their portion of the freeway approach to the O'Callaghan/Tillman bridge as I-11?

From what i understand no, other than the "Future i-11" signs they already have.  They probably could being the first 10 miles are up to freeway standard but it's not planned.

On another note, I drove this earlier this week.  Heading from AZ into Las Vegas is a bit easier being that you no longer have to go through the stoplight in front of Railroad Pass now that you drive on the new lanes.

However, the what seems to be the constantly moving chokepoint over there seemed to move onto the freeway.  Based on my observation, the new I-11 with only two lanes each way from Railroad Pass up to the Boulder Hwy exit seems to be inadequate already.  With all the Boulder City, US 93 and US 95 traffic funneling into two lanes for a few miles, speeds were down to 30 mph on a midweek afternoon.  There were no incidents either.  Once you get up to Boulder Hwy I-11/I-515 opens up to three lanes and traffic sped up to the speed limit then.  It looks like it was designed to be able to add a third lane based on the widths of the underpasses, but it seems it should have been built now.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: KeithE4Phx on May 11, 2018, 07:37:36 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 09, 2018, 04:35:49 PM
Does anyone know if AZ is planning to sign their portion of the freeway approach to the O'Callaghan/Tillman bridge as I-11?

AFAIK, they are not, at least not until the portion of US 93 between AZ 68 and the bridge is completely up to freeway standards.  I don't know if they even have a timetable for that yet.  They seem to be more interested in finalizing a route from Wickenburg to Nogales before building any of it.  The segment south of I-8 is completely unnecessary.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on May 11, 2018, 10:09:35 PM
Quote from: kdk on May 11, 2018, 07:18:59 PM
On another note, I drove this earlier this week.  Heading from AZ into Las Vegas is a bit easier being that you no longer have to go through the stoplight in front of Railroad Pass now that you drive on the new lanes.

However, the what seems to be the constantly moving chokepoint over there seemed to move onto the freeway.  Based on my observation, the new I-11 with only two lanes each way from Railroad Pass up to the Boulder Hwy exit seems to be inadequate already.  With all the Boulder City, US 93 and US 95 traffic funneling into two lanes for a few miles, speeds were down to 30 mph on a midweek afternoon.  There were no incidents either.  Once you get up to Boulder Hwy I-11/I-515 opens up to three lanes and traffic sped up to the speed limit then.  It looks like it was designed to be able to add a third lane based on the widths of the underpasses, but it seems it should have been built now.

The slowdown you described seems excessively low. I never experienced that in the before condition, except in dealing with the signal at Railroad Pass Casino. It makes me think there had been something that happened, probably much earlier than when you passed through, that affected traffic. Given how spread out the northbound onramps are from US 95 to Railroad Pass Casino Rd to Boulder City Pkwy/future BUS 93, I think the merging will be sufficiently spread out that two lanes of traffic will be fine. (Also note that constructing to three lanes would've required expanding the overpasses at Paradise Hills Dr (just before Boulder Hwy). But yes, they could expand later if needed--nowadays, NDOT seems to construct overpasses with enough room underneath to fit 4-5 lanes each way, even if the freeway is unlikely to ever be expanded that much.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on May 14, 2018, 12:44:58 PM
Quote from: kdk on May 11, 2018, 07:18:59 PM
On another note, I drove this earlier this week.  Heading from AZ into Las Vegas is a bit easier being that you no longer have to go through the stoplight in front of Railroad Pass now that you drive on the new lanes.

However, the what seems to be the constantly moving chokepoint over there seemed to move onto the freeway.  Based on my observation, the new I-11 with only two lanes each way from Railroad Pass up to the Boulder Hwy exit seems to be inadequate already.  With all the Boulder City, US 93 and US 95 traffic funneling into two lanes for a few miles, speeds were down to 30 mph on a midweek afternoon.  There were no incidents either.  Once you get up to Boulder Hwy I-11/I-515 opens up to three lanes and traffic sped up to the speed limit then.  It looks like it was designed to be able to add a third lane based on the widths of the underpasses, but it seems it should have been built now.

This doesn't surprise me — I've encountered volume issues there (especially inbound) in the past. That being said, I'm not sure it's a terrible thing — a slowdown to 30 mph a few hours a day isn't a huge issue, and the millions in expenses to add a truck lane probably aren't worth the benefit.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on May 15, 2018, 10:33:55 AM
......It's heeeeeeere.........

Looks like the nascent I-11 stretch will in fact be open quite soon, according to the LV press:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/15-mile-segment-of-i-11-to-open-three-months-ahead-of-schedule/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: mvak36 on May 16, 2018, 09:43:20 AM
Quote from: sparker on May 15, 2018, 10:33:55 AM
......It's heeeeeeere.........

Looks like the nascent I-11 stretch will in fact be open quite soon, according to the LV press:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/15-mile-segment-of-i-11-to-open-three-months-ahead-of-schedule/

That's great news. I might have to fly out there again one of these days to drive the new segment.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Exit58 on May 16, 2018, 02:50:39 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 15, 2018, 10:33:55 AM
......It's heeeeeeere.........

Looks like the nascent I-11 stretch will in fact be open quite soon, according to the LV press:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/15-mile-segment-of-i-11-to-open-three-months-ahead-of-schedule/

QuoteTravel Center at the Railroad Pass was built on a 24-acre parcel, with... a dozen charging stations for electric vehicles

This is very exciting news as well! A sign of things to come in the future.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on May 20, 2018, 02:48:51 PM
Phase 1 construction (end I-515 to new US 95 interchange, originally scheduled to be completed in April 2018) should be opened to drivers by 7am on Wednesday, May 23rd.

First phase of I-11 opens next week near Las Vegas (https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/first-phase-of-i-11-opens-next-week-near-las-vegas/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/17/18
Quote
The first phase of Interstate 11, stretching 2 ½ miles from the U.S. Highway 95 interchange in Boulder City to Foothill Drive in Henderson, will open to traffic by 7 a.m. Wednesday, the Nevada Department of Transportation said.

That initial concrete segment built by NDOT was supposed to be completed last month, but "equipment issues"  forced construction crews to continue painting stripes along the road and adding some other finishing touches through next week, officials said.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on May 21, 2018, 11:33:42 AM
Quote from: roadfro on May 20, 2018, 02:48:51 PM
Phase 1 construction (end I-515 to new US 95 interchange, originally scheduled to be completed in April 2018) should be opened to drivers by 7am on Wednesday, May 23rd.

First phase of I-11 opens next week near Las Vegas (https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/first-phase-of-i-11-opens-next-week-near-las-vegas/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/17/18
Quote
The first phase of Interstate 11, stretching 2 ½ miles from the U.S. Highway 95 interchange in Boulder City to Foothill Drive in Henderson, will open to traffic by 7 a.m. Wednesday, the Nevada Department of Transportation said.

That initial concrete segment built by NDOT was supposed to be completed last month, but "equipment issues"  forced construction crews to continue painting stripes along the road and adding some other finishing touches through next week, officials said.
Thanks for the head's up!
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: myosh_tino on May 21, 2018, 12:59:21 PM
Quote from: roadfro on May 20, 2018, 02:48:51 PM
Phase 1 construction (end I-515 to new US 95 interchange, originally scheduled to be completed in April 2018) should be opened to drivers by 7am on Wednesday, May 23rd.

First phase of I-11 opens next week near Las Vegas (https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/first-phase-of-i-11-opens-next-week-near-las-vegas/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/17/18
Quote
The first phase of Interstate 11, stretching 2 ½ miles from the U.S. Highway 95 interchange in Boulder City to Foothill Drive in Henderson, will open to traffic by 7 a.m. Wednesday, the Nevada Department of Transportation said.

That initial concrete segment built by NDOT was supposed to be completed last month, but "equipment issues"  forced construction crews to continue painting stripes along the road and adding some other finishing touches through next week, officials said.

Darn it!  I'm in Vegas right now but I'm headed home on Tuesday.   :banghead:

I guess I'll have to wait until October to get a look at the new freeway. *sigh*
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on May 22, 2018, 02:29:02 PM
Quote from: myosh_tino on May 21, 2018, 12:59:21 PM
Quote from: roadfro on May 20, 2018, 02:48:51 PM
Phase 1 construction (end I-515 to new US 95 interchange, originally scheduled to be completed in April 2018) should be opened to drivers by 7am on Wednesday, May 23rd.

First phase of I-11 opens next week near Las Vegas (https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/first-phase-of-i-11-opens-next-week-near-las-vegas/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/17/18
Quote
The first phase of Interstate 11, stretching 2 ½ miles from the U.S. Highway 95 interchange in Boulder City to Foothill Drive in Henderson, will open to traffic by 7 a.m. Wednesday, the Nevada Department of Transportation said.

That initial concrete segment built by NDOT was supposed to be completed last month, but "equipment issues"  forced construction crews to continue painting stripes along the road and adding some other finishing touches through next week, officials said.

Darn it!  I'm in Vegas right now but I'm headed home on Tuesday.  :banged:

I guess I'll have to wait until October to get a look at the new freeway. *sigh*
You'll only be missing the mile or so between US 95 and Railroad Pass Casino Rd. That's the small remaining part of Phase 1 opening tomorrow. The bulk of Phase 2 will not be opened until late-summer. Those DOT announcements always seem to make these openings seem more grandiose than they really are. But when the 12.5-mile Phase 2 opens, it WILL be a big deal.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on May 24, 2018, 11:09:04 AM
Quote from: myosh_tino on May 21, 2018, 12:59:21 PM
Darn it!  I'm in Vegas right now but I'm headed home on Tuesday.   :banghead:

I guess I'll have to wait until October to get a look at the new freeway. *sigh*

If it's any consolation, when you're there in October, the whole bypass will be complete!
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on May 29, 2018, 04:52:39 PM
Quote from: roadfro on May 11, 2018, 10:09:35 PM
Quote from: kdk on May 11, 2018, 07:18:59 PM
On another note, I drove this earlier this week.  Heading from AZ into Las Vegas is a bit easier being that you no longer have to go through the stoplight in front of Railroad Pass now that you drive on the new lanes.

However, the what seems to be the constantly moving chokepoint over there seemed to move onto the freeway.  Based on my observation, the new I-11 with only two lanes each way from Railroad Pass up to the Boulder Hwy exit seems to be inadequate already.  With all the Boulder City, US 93 and US 95 traffic funneling into two lanes for a few miles, speeds were down to 30 mph on a midweek afternoon.  There were no incidents either.  Once you get up to Boulder Hwy I-11/I-515 opens up to three lanes and traffic sped up to the speed limit then.  It looks like it was designed to be able to add a third lane based on the widths of the underpasses, but it seems it should have been built now.


The slowdown you described seems excessively low. I never experienced that in the before condition, except in dealing with the signal at Railroad Pass Casino. It makes me think there had been something that happened, probably much earlier than when you passed through, that affected traffic. Given how spread out the northbound onramps are from US 95 to Railroad Pass Casino Rd to Boulder City Pkwy/future BUS 93, I think the merging will be sufficiently spread out that two lanes of traffic will be fine. (Also note that constructing to three lanes would've required expanding the overpasses at Paradise Hills Dr (just before Boulder Hwy). But yes, they could expand later if needed--nowadays, NDOT seems to construct overpasses with enough room underneath to fit 4-5 lanes each way, even if the freeway is unlikely to ever be expanded that much.

So I drove it again last week (just before the opening of the lanes down to the new 95 interchange), it wasn't quite as slow but still slow and congested.  Part of it may be that you essentially have to quickly move over two lanes upon entering the new freeway lanes.  Drivers may be confused and drive a bit slower, but it just seemed like a lot of traffic crammed onto two lanes, and it didn't get up to the speed limit again until reaching the Boulder Highway interchange which is several miles north.   I'll be there again in a few weeks so maybe the fact that the configuration will be different may help so will see.  This is only on the northbound side, I have yet to have this issue heading south even before the upgrades.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on May 31, 2018, 12:33:24 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 15, 2018, 10:33:55 AM
Looks like the nascent I-11 stretch will in fact be open quite soon, according to the LV press:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/15-mile-segment-of-i-11-to-open-three-months-ahead-of-schedule/

The above article mentions Phase 2 would open in late July.

It looks like that will be pushed back a little bit. In the following article (which discusses federal infrastructure plan revamping, with one possible funding looking at a fuel revenue indexing plan similar to that recently permanently adopted by Clark County voters), there is a mention of I-11 and it's completion date.

Federal infrastructure plan could borrow from Southern Nevada (https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/politics-and-government/federal-infrastructure-plan-could-borrow-from-southern-nevada/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/29/2018
Quote
The first 15-mile stretch of the new interstate running between Henderson and the Hoover Dam is set to open Aug. 9, but Malfabon and other state officials now want to see a connection to Phoenix.

Still ahead of the original October 2018 projection, but now not quite the three months they had initially stated.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 06:44:45 AM
From a YouTube video I saw over the weekend, it looks like I-11 is cosigned with US 93 going northbound crossing into Nevada from Arizona. All traffic is forced to exit to the future Business 93 (Exit 2). Once you get back on the I-11 alignment near Railroad Pass Casino, I-11 is cosigned with US 93 and US 95. For now, I-11 transitions to I-515 around exit 56 of I-515 (Wagon Wheel Dr/Boulder Hwy).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 11:55:36 AM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 06:44:45 AM
From a YouTube video I saw over the weekend, it looks like I-11 is cosigned with US 93 going northbound crossing into Nevada from Arizona. All traffic is forced to exit to the future Business 93 (Exit 2). Once you get back on the I-11 alignment near Railroad Pass Casino, I-11 is cosigned with US 93 and US 95. For now, I-11 transitions to I-515 around exit 56 of I-515 (Wagon Wheel Dr/Boulder Hwy).

Link?

Curious that I-515 hasn't been re-signed as I-11 south of 215 yet. NDOT allegedly had a contract out to do that last year.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 12:48:03 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 11:55:36 AM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 06:44:45 AM
From a YouTube video I saw over the weekend, it looks like I-11 is cosigned with US 93 going northbound crossing into Nevada from Arizona. All traffic is forced to exit to the future Business 93 (Exit 2). Once you get back on the I-11 alignment near Railroad Pass Casino, I-11 is cosigned with US 93 and US 95. For now, I-11 transitions to I-515 around exit 56 of I-515 (Wagon Wheel Dr/Boulder Hwy).

Link?

Curious that I-515 hasn't been re-signed as I-11 south of 215 yet. NDOT allegedly had a contract out to do that last year.


Link is below. (Skip ahead to about 2:23:45 to US 93 in Arizona at the Kingman Wash Access Road exit.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sM-LG8yWF2Q
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 25, 2018, 03:59:28 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 12:48:03 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 11:55:36 AM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 06:44:45 AM
From a YouTube video I saw over the weekend, it looks like I-11 is cosigned with US 93 going northbound crossing into Nevada from Arizona. All traffic is forced to exit to the future Business 93 (Exit 2). Once you get back on the I-11 alignment near Railroad Pass Casino, I-11 is cosigned with US 93 and US 95. For now, I-11 transitions to I-515 around exit 56 of I-515 (Wagon Wheel Dr/Boulder Hwy).

Link?

Curious that I-515 hasn't been re-signed as I-11 south of 215 yet. NDOT allegedly had a contract out to do that last year.


Link is below. (Skip ahead to about 2:23:45 to US 93 in Arizona at the Kingman Wash Access Road exit.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sM-LG8yWF2Q

The first I-11/US 93 reassurance array can be seen at 2:26:37 just after leaving the O'Callaghan-Tillman bridge and definitely on the NV side of the crossing. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 07:11:32 PM
To clarify: Curious that the Boulder Highway to 215 stretch hadn't been re-signed yet.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Anthony_JK on June 26, 2018, 02:46:57 AM
Probably waiting for the remainder of the Boulder City Bypass segments of I-11 to be completed before making the official switch.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Henry on June 26, 2018, 09:28:52 AM
And with that, I-11 is coming ever so close to AZ, which may hasten its completion to Phoenix by a considerable amount of time.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 26, 2018, 04:46:00 PM
Quote from: Henry on June 26, 2018, 09:28:52 AM
And with that, I-11 is coming ever so close to AZ, which may hasten its completion to Phoenix by a considerable amount of time.

Which will probably be a leisurely process at best.  I'd be willing to wager that AZDOT concentrates on the segment north of Kingman first -- including the connection to I-40, which seems to have some level of local support, since it would be the most straightforward upgrade of the entire AZ portion of the corridor -- and would serve as a functional SIU, funneling traffic from eastward I-40 points toward Vegas -- which would in turn provide a locale to place significant numbers of roadside service facilities (revenue enhancement).  The remainder of the corridor will likely depend upon the pace of progress on the new-terrain segments south of Wickenburg; not likely that ADOT will prioritize the Wickenburg-I-40 segment until at least a path connecting to the PHX freeway network has been finalized.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 27, 2018, 10:59:03 AM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 11:55:36 AM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on June 25, 2018, 06:44:45 AM
From a YouTube video I saw over the weekend, it looks like I-11 is cosigned with US 93 going northbound crossing into Nevada from Arizona. All traffic is forced to exit to the future Business 93 (Exit 2). Once you get back on the I-11 alignment near Railroad Pass Casino, I-11 is cosigned with US 93 and US 95. For now, I-11 transitions to I-515 around exit 56 of I-515 (Wagon Wheel Dr/Boulder Hwy).
Curious that I-515 hasn't been re-signed as I-11 south of 215 yet. NDOT allegedly had a contract out to do that last year.
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 07:11:32 PM
To clarify: Curious that the Boulder Highway to 215 stretch hadn't been re-signed yet.

I'm fairly certain that NDOT has no intentions to commence resigning this portion of I-515 as I-11 until the rest of the Boulder City Bypass is completed. (There might also be other signing improvements coming along that stretch than just replacing I-515 shields with I-11 shields, as the NDOT's STIP page is allocating $300,000 for this. Some of the guide signing along this stretch is quite tired–I'm assuming much of it dates to original construction of that stretch circa 1995).

The I-11 shield seen in the video was likely erected as part of the signing plan for the phase 2 contract–note that some other phase 2 signing has been installed. For example, the northbound Exit 2 sign used to read "[SR 172] Hoover Dam" and in this video has been replaced with "[US 93 Business] Boulder City" (with Hoover Dam and Lake Mead NRA relegated to a supplemental brown sign).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on June 27, 2018, 11:17:24 AM
Quote from: roadfro on June 27, 2018, 10:59:03 AM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 07:11:32 PM
To clarify: Curious that the Boulder Highway to 215 stretch hadn't been re-signed yet.

I'm fairly certain that NDOT has no intentions to commence resigning this portion of I-515 as I-11 until the rest of the Boulder City Bypass is completed. (There might also be other signing improvements coming along that stretch than just replacing I-515 shields with I-11 shields, as the NDOT's STIP page is allocating $300,000 for this. Some of the guide signing along this stretch is quite tired–I'm assuming much of it dates to original construction of that stretch circa 1995).

But... this... 

https://lasvegassun.com/news/2017/sep/09/more-interstate-11-signs-on-the-way/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 27, 2018, 12:28:47 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 27, 2018, 11:17:24 AM
Quote from: roadfro on June 27, 2018, 10:59:03 AM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on June 25, 2018, 07:11:32 PM
To clarify: Curious that the Boulder Highway to 215 stretch hadn't been re-signed yet.

I'm fairly certain that NDOT has no intentions to commence resigning this portion of I-515 as I-11 until the rest of the Boulder City Bypass is completed. (There might also be other signing improvements coming along that stretch than just replacing I-515 shields with I-11 shields, as the NDOT's STIP page is allocating $300,000 for this. Some of the guide signing along this stretch is quite tired–I'm assuming much of it dates to original construction of that stretch circa 1995).

But... this...

https://lasvegassun.com/news/2017/sep/09/more-interstate-11-signs-on-the-way/

Obviously, since it's the end of June 2018, and the I-11 shield replacement didn't happen by last December (after the article was published), NDOT has elected to delay the swap until later.  Why? -- possibly the GPS issue regarding switching of roadways near Railroad Pass, possibly just to make sure that the entire segment from the state line north to I-515 was completed so signage could be done in one fell swoop -- or they simply decided to delay the activity until the next fiscal year (a more than likely scenario given the funding issues that befall almost every agency these days).  Since they did place the initial NB signage immediately after the big bridge (as per the "big rig" video) -- and that segment had gone unsigned since it was opened in 2011 -- one could say that there is no reticence on the part of NDOT to deploy such signage -- just internal issues with scheduling.  Wouldn't be the first time a press release wasn't prescient; but such delays are commonplace.  Unless someone wants to call NDOT and ask them why the changeover wasn't done according to their original press release, everything is merely speculation.  I think we can afford to wait until NDOT gets around to the task; given I-11's PR flack over the last couple of years, it's bound to happen sooner or later. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: JREwing78 on June 27, 2018, 09:05:15 PM
I'm a little surprised that the Tillman bridge requires tall vehicles to travel in the left lane. There's no apparent reason for it (besides possibly cross-winds), but that's not a common sight outside of work zones.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 28, 2018, 12:21:21 AM
Quote from: JREwing78 on June 27, 2018, 09:05:15 PM
I'm a little surprised that the Tillman bridge requires tall vehicles to travel in the left lane. There's no apparent reason for it (besides possibly cross-winds), but that's not a common sight outside of work zones.

It is wind-related phenomena that has prompted the vertical-height lane restriction.  It's crosswinds, tail winds, etc.; that canyon is something of a vortex for wind currents.  I remember traveling over the dam pre-9/11, and feeling like I was going to get blown into Lake Mead.  The combination of water, heat, and dam structure tends to create its own microclimate; the bridge was simply laid atop it all.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on June 28, 2018, 04:21:26 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 28, 2018, 12:21:21 AM
Quote from: JREwing78 on June 27, 2018, 09:05:15 PM
I'm a little surprised that the Tillman bridge requires tall vehicles to travel in the left lane. There's no apparent reason for it (besides possibly cross-winds), but that's not a common sight outside of work zones.

It is wind-related phenomena that has prompted the vertical-height lane restriction.  It's crosswinds, tail winds, etc.; that canyon is something of a vortex for wind currents.  I remember traveling over the dam pre-9/11, and feeling like I was going to get blown into Lake Mead.  The combination of water, heat, and dam structure tends to create its own microclimate; the bridge was simply laid atop it all.
Another reason, in the northbound direction only, may be the presence of the adjacent pedestrian walkway. Though separated by a tall concrete barrier, the wind effects of fast-moving large vehicles in the right lane can create an unpleasant effect for those sightseeing along the bridge's walkway. But the canyon crosswinds are still the main reason for this regulation.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:27:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 26, 2018, 04:46:00 PM
The remainder of the corridor will likely depend upon the pace of progress on the new-terrain segments south of Wickenburg; not likely that ADOT will prioritize the Wickenburg-I-40 segment until at least a path connecting to the PHX freeway network has been finalized.

They seem to be putting a fair amount of effort into fourlaning the part through the hills, but I can't imagine any of it being designated part of I-11 until the entire route from I-40 to somewhere around Phoenix is pretty much done.

But that's fine. Not every road has to be an Interstate.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:35:37 AM
Quote from: JREwing78 on June 27, 2018, 09:05:15 PM
I'm a little surprised that the Tillman bridge requires tall vehicles to travel in the left lane. There's no apparent reason for it (besides possibly cross-winds), but that's not a common sight outside of work zones.

Most people don't realize that forward motion amplifies the side forces from a crosswind. Truck drivers are supposed to know that, and slow way down, but I doubt most RV drivers do. In extreme crosswinds, I've seen both tractor-trailers and campers blown over on their sides along freeways. Better to land on the roadbed and cause a traffic jam than to go over the side of the bridge and plunge 800 feet to a grisly death.

But they should probably use an electric sign that only puts up that message when the wind is up.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: TimQuiQui on June 29, 2018, 11:41:15 AM
At least on the Arizona approach it is an electronic as-needed sign that delivers that message. Of course, it's been so windy here lately it might feel like a permanent requirement...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on June 29, 2018, 06:40:53 PM
Quote from: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:27:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 26, 2018, 04:46:00 PM
The remainder of the corridor will likely depend upon the pace of progress on the new-terrain segments south of Wickenburg; not likely that ADOT will prioritize the Wickenburg-I-40 segment until at least a path connecting to the PHX freeway network has been finalized.

They seem to be putting a fair amount of effort into fourlaning the part through the hills, but I can't imagine any of it being designated part of I-11 until the entire route from I-40 to somewhere around Phoenix is pretty much done.

But that's fine. Not every road has to be an Interstate.


AZDOT seems to be handling the Wickenburg to I-40 segment in a similar fashion to Caltrans' approach to CA 58 out in the desert:  do the 4-laning first, preferably to Interstate geometry, and add any niceties like interchanges and/or grade separations at a later date, when the final push toward Interstate status is imminent -- the primary difference is that the I-11 designation, while technically an "unfunded mandate" is ingrained in the U.S. Code, while anything Interstate-wise over CA 58 remains simply speculation.  So not everything has to be an Interstate -- but in the case of at least the legal designation of I-11, that's a fait accompli.  When it'll be completed is anyone's guess! 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on July 01, 2018, 12:42:04 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 29, 2018, 06:40:53 PM
Quote from: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:27:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 26, 2018, 04:46:00 PM
The remainder of the corridor will likely depend upon the pace of progress on the new-terrain segments south of Wickenburg; not likely that ADOT will prioritize the Wickenburg-I-40 segment until at least a path connecting to the PHX freeway network has been finalized.

They seem to be putting a fair amount of effort into fourlaning the part through the hills, but I can't imagine any of it being designated part of I-11 until the entire route from I-40 to somewhere around Phoenix is pretty much done.

But that's fine. Not every road has to be an Interstate.


AZDOT seems to be handling the Wickenburg to I-40 segment in a similar fashion to Caltrans' approach to CA 58 out in the desert:  do the 4-laning first, preferably to Interstate geometry, and add any niceties like interchanges and/or grade separations at a later date, when the final push toward Interstate status is imminent -- the primary difference is that the I-11 designation, while technically an "unfunded mandate" is ingrained in the U.S. Code, while anything Interstate-wise over CA 58 remains simply speculation.  So not everything has to be an Interstate -- but in the case of at least the legal designation of I-11, that's a fait accompli.  When it'll be completed is anyone's guess!
That has been the plan all along (upgrade to expressway, then later to Interstate freeway), ADOT has stated as much in every NEPA document for US 93 going back to the late 1990s. They even have the locations identified for the future traffic interchanges between Wickenburg & Kingman, including 2 for the Wikieup bypass & 3 new ones at points along the I-40 multiplex (not counting the system interchange planned for West Kingman or the upgrade of the Round Valley junction where US 93 heads south). I have downloaded many of those documents, so if anyone has any questions relating to these specific sections of roadway, I would be happy to try and answer them to the best of my ability.

A similar ADOT game plan exists for US 93 between the existing Kingman Wash Access Road interchange just south of the state line and Kingman, though the 4-laning has now been long completed (except at the aforementioned I-40 junction). The SB lanes south of Householder Pass (original US 93/US 466) need major geometric improvements and modern shoulders, which has been and will likely continue to be done in piecemeal fashion as funding permits. Later will come grade separations & interchanges as traffic volume demand warrants & funding allows. General locations of interchanges have been investigated, but no final decisions have been made as far as I can tell.

Just a note on my background: I first experienced Las Vegas to Kingman portion of this route in 1967, during a National Lampoon's Vacation-style cross country road trip with my parents. 30 years later, I drove the entire Phoenix - Vegas route before almost all of the improvements along US 93 (& many on US 60) took place (a trip I've repeated several times since). So I have a more than passing familiarity with the projects - both completed and planned - between these two major cities. Because of that, and because of a lifetime of being a road geek (in no small part due to that epic adventure when I was 11 years old), I've kept up with all the planned upgrades that have now resulted in the Interstate 11 mandate.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 04, 2018, 02:44:24 AM
Quote from: SSR_317 on July 01, 2018, 12:42:04 PM
Just a note on my background: I first experienced Las Vegas to Kingman portion of this route in 1967, during a National Lampoon's Vacation-style cross country road trip with my parents. 30 years later, I drove the entire Phoenix - Vegas route before almost all of the improvements along US 93 (& many on US 60) took place (a trip I've repeated several times since). So I have a more than passing familiarity with the projects - both completed and planned - between these two major cities. Because of that, and because of a lifetime of being a road geek (in no small part due to that epic adventure when I was 11 years old), I've kept up with all the planned upgrades that have now resulted in the Interstate 11 mandate.

This general area figured into my initiation into cross-country road trips back in the summer of 1960, when I was ten years old and living in the L.A. area.  The trip was to return my mother's visiting aunt to her home in St. Louis; in order to get some specific points into the trip, it was quite convoluted (no straight shot down 66 on this journey!) -- outbound through Vegas and central Utah, across Colorado, Kansas, and Missouri (which involved some of the original opened sections of I-70 in KS!).  I was de facto navigator on this trip, but was more often than not overruled by my parents, who had those specific points of interest in mind.  We had just hit the Grand Canyon on the return leg and, in my mind, were likely to end up in Kingman that evening before heading home to L.A.  But no -- my dad, ever the historical buff,  wanted to see a particular museum in Prescott, so we shot down US 89 -- only to find the museum closed for renovation!  So we overnighted in that town, and then headed down 89, AZ 71, and US 60/70 pretty much all the way back to L.A. the next day -- and I for one was delighted to be able to travel the new I-10 section from Indio west to North Palm Springs that had opened only two weeks earlier!  Rural Interstate mileage was still a rarity back then; to my mom's consternation, I used up quite a bit of her Polaroid film pack taking pictures of the new facilities.  Unfortunately, they disappeared over the years. 

It was an interesting trip in interesting times.  I may do a retrospective trip down "memory lane" about it sometime in the Road Trips section.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: skluth on July 05, 2018, 07:28:31 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on July 01, 2018, 12:42:04 PM

Just a note on my background: I first experienced Las Vegas to Kingman portion of this route in 1967, during a National Lampoon's Vacation-style cross country road trip with my parents.

My first experience on that stretch of highway was in very similar circumstances. My family took a trip from Green Bay to California in June 1968. It was mostly on the old US 66 route (then still going through Peach Springs) which was rapidly being replaced by interstate, but my parents wanted to go to Las Vegas so we went north on US 93 at Kingman. We didn't have AC in the car (a big 67 Impala which was my parents first new car) as it wasn't needed in Wisconsin and was not yet standard equipment. There was some construction going on and we stopped for about a half hour in the desert heat. It was a fun trip overall, but that travel day was awful. That night was OK as we got to see the Strip for a bit before my parents left us at the campground while they went to the casinos.

The following day we headed for Cali on I-15. The Impala overheated climbing the pass south of LV and we had to wait until it cooled down before crossing the Mojave, which shows just how much car tech has improved. Sad to see that it is still only two lanes each way, which is insane given the current traffic.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 06, 2018, 02:07:26 AM
Quote from: skluth on July 05, 2018, 07:28:31 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on July 01, 2018, 12:42:04 PM

Just a note on my background: I first experienced Las Vegas to Kingman portion of this route in 1967, during a National Lampoon's Vacation-style cross country road trip with my parents.

My first experience on that stretch of highway was in very similar circumstances. My family took a trip from Green Bay to California in June 1968. It was mostly on the old US 66 route (then still going through Peach Springs) which was rapidly being replaced by interstate, but my parents wanted to go to Las Vegas so we went north on US 93 at Kingman. We didn't have AC in the car (a big 67 Impala which was my parents first new car) as it wasn't needed in Wisconsin and was not yet standard equipment. There was some construction going on and we stopped for about a half hour in the desert heat. It was a fun trip overall, but that travel day was awful. That night was OK as we got to see the Strip for a bit before my parents left us at the campground while they went to the casinos.

The following day we headed for Cali on I-15. The Impala overheated climbing the pass south of LV and we had to wait until it cooled down before crossing the Mojave, which shows just how much car tech has improved. Sad to see that it is still only two lanes each way, which is insane given the current traffic.

Mountain Pass (such an original name!) on I-15 just into CA has claimed quite a few older American-car cooling systems in its time; when I was in college in the late '60's a bunch of us used to head up to Vegas for spring break; we always dreaded Baker Hill (20-odd miles of consistent gradient NB) and Mountain Pass (with its "ski-jump" slope) SB; had my first car, a '61 Chevy Bel Air "beater" -- quickly learned to carry a large container of water in the trunk for just that purpose.  And about 15 years later, when hauling a Dodge van full of speakers and electronics to & from the Consumer Electronic Show, had the same experience on the return trip coming up Mountain Pass -- had to stop for about 45 minutes to let the thing cool down + "rewatering" before heading down I-15 and then over CA 58.  Sometimes I miss not being able to fully work on my own vehicles -- but that aspect of it I don't miss at all! 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 08:04:28 AM
Quote from: skluth on July 05, 2018, 07:28:31 PMSad to see that it is still only two lanes each way, which is insane given the current traffic.
There is roughly about 100 miles from just east of Barstow to state line which are 2x2, so it would cost a lot of money to upgrade that to 2x3.  From CA's perspective, that spending would result in even more CA money being spent in NV so, unfortunately, I think we may end up waiting a long time -- unless NV or Clark County or both offer to cover part of the cost, which doesn't seem likely.

There is also a 2 mile section of I-11 between College Dr and Railroad Pass which is 2x2.  It seems to me that I-11 needs to be 2x3 all the way to the fork of the Boulder City bypass (I-11) and what will become the business loop.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on July 07, 2018, 08:36:40 AM
Quote from: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 08:04:28 AM
Quote from: skluth on July 05, 2018, 07:28:31 PMSad to see that it is still only two lanes each way, which is insane given the current traffic.
There is roughly about 100 miles from just east of Barstow to state line which are 2x2, so it would cost a lot of money to upgrade that to 2x3.  From CA's perspective, that spending would result in even more CA money being spent in NV so, unfortunately, I think we may end up waiting a long time -- unless NV or Clark County or both offer to cover part of the cost, which doesn't seem likely.

There is also a 2 mile section of I-11 between College Dr and Railroad Pass which is 2x2.  It seems to me that I-11 needs to be 2x3 all the way to the fork of the Boulder City bypass (I-11) and what will become the business loop.
CA doesn't need to worry about where it's residents are spending money. They need to worry about providing its residents great infrastructure that suits their needs. It needs to be 3x3, not just 2x3.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on July 07, 2018, 09:14:24 AM
Quote from: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 08:04:28 AM
There is also a 2 mile section of I-11 between College Dr and Railroad Pass which is 2x2.  It seems to me that I-11 needs to be 2x3 all the way to the fork of the Boulder City bypass (I-11) and what will become the business loop.

I-515 (Future I-11) is three lanes each way down to the Wagonwheel Dr/Boulder Hwy interchange, not College Drive.

The entirety of the new I-11 facility is two lanes each way.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 07, 2018, 02:34:56 PM
Quote from: roadfro on July 07, 2018, 09:14:24 AM
Quote from: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 08:04:28 AM
There is also a 2 mile section of I-11 between College Dr and Railroad Pass which is 2x2.  It seems to me that I-11 needs to be 2x3 all the way to the fork of the Boulder City bypass (I-11) and what will become the business loop.

I-515 (Future I-11) is three lanes each way down to the Wagonwheel Dr/Boulder Hwy interchange, not College Drive.

The entirety of the new I-11 facility is two lanes each way.

Which seems to be at least adequate; the traffic volume coming down I-515 and, to a lesser degree, from I-215, splits at the US 95 junction just east of Railroad Pass.  US 95 itself connects to other areas of local interest, primarily the Laughlin/Bullhead City casino/recreational area, so it will naturally draw a share of the overall traffic down the traditional US 93/95 corridor heading SE out of Vegas.  I-11 and the O'Callaghan/Tillman Bridge are intended to address interregional traffic needs; the US 95 traffic and that headed to Boulder City will have diverged prior to the new bypass freeway segment.  However, because of the interchange providing more or less direct service to the west Hoover Dam access road at the east end of the new bypass -- a regional tourist destination -- there may be the potential for future congestion at that interchange.  That notwithstanding, at present a 3+3 configuration east of Railroad Pass would appear to be overkill. 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 03:03:25 PM
Quote from: roadfro on July 07, 2018, 09:14:24 AM
Quote from: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 08:04:28 AM
There is also a 2 mile section of I-11 between College Dr and Railroad Pass which is 2x2.  It seems to me that I-11 needs to be 2x3 all the way to the fork of the Boulder City bypass (I-11) and what will become the business loop.

I-515 (Future I-11) is three lanes each way down to the Wagonwheel Dr/Boulder Hwy interchange, not College Drive.
You're correct that from Las Vegas, the third lane exits at Wagonwheel Dr.  However, what I wrote is also correct.  There is a two mile long section that is 2x2 and that section is between College Dr and Railroad Pass.  That does not in any way imply that the distance from College Dr to Railroad Pass is two miles or that the entire road between College Dr and Railroad Pass is 2x2.  It's no more wrong than saying that there is a two mile section of 2x2 and it's between Las Vegas and Boulder City.

It might be the case that the road is still officially I-515 and not yet I-11 but it is presently signed I-11.

Quote from: sparker on July 07, 2018, 02:34:56 PM
Which seems to be at least adequate; the traffic volume coming down I-515 and, to a lesser degree, from I-215, splits at the US 95 junction just east of Railroad Pass.  US 95 itself connects to other areas of local interest, primarily the Laughlin/Bullhead City casino/recreational area, so it will naturally draw a share of the overall traffic down the traditional US 93/95 corridor heading SE out of Vegas.  I-11 and the O'Callaghan/Tillman Bridge are intended to address interregional traffic needs; the US 95 traffic and that headed to Boulder City will have diverged prior to the new bypass freeway segment.  However, because of the interchange providing more or less direct service to the west Hoover Dam access road at the east end of the new bypass -- a regional tourist destination -- there may be the potential for future congestion at that interchange.  That notwithstanding, at present a 3+3 configuration east of Railroad Pass would appear to be overkill.
I suggested that the road _west_ (or north) of Railroad Pass should be 2x3 up the split (which is very slightly northwest of the Railroad Pass summit).  I agree that having two 2x2 roads east of the split should be fine and didn't suggest otherwise.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 07, 2018, 04:02:57 PM
Agreed -- sorry for any misunderstanding.  IIRC, the plans do specify a 3+3 (or possibly 2 lanes with a third marked for the US 95 ramp) from the RR Pass casino down to the 95 split.  Right now I believe while there's enough room for a 3rd lane, the thing is (temporarily?) configured as 2+2 -- but the segment between the I-215 interchange and the US 95 divergence seems to be in a constant state of flux; I don't think we'll see a final version until (a) the I-11 segment east of there is open to traffic, and (b) the final phase of the Railroad Pass segment is completed (and ostensibly I-11 signage erected for that section).  Even the most recent photos I've seen show that section as part of a construction zone -- so it's probably just a matter of waiting out the process.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on July 08, 2018, 11:16:57 AM
Quote from: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 03:03:25 PM
Quote from: roadfro on July 07, 2018, 09:14:24 AM
Quote from: mcarling on July 07, 2018, 08:04:28 AM
There is also a 2 mile section of I-11 between College Dr and Railroad Pass which is 2x2.  It seems to me that I-11 needs to be 2x3 all the way to the fork of the Boulder City bypass (I-11) and what will become the business loop.

I-515 (Future I-11) is three lanes each way down to the Wagonwheel Dr/Boulder Hwy interchange, not College Drive.
You're correct that from Las Vegas, the third lane exits at Wagonwheel Dr.  However, what I wrote is also correct.  There is a two mile long section that is 2x2 and that section is between College Dr and Railroad Pass.  That does not in any way imply that the distance from College Dr to Railroad Pass is two miles or that the entire road between College Dr and Railroad Pass is 2x2.  It's no more wrong than saying that there is a two mile section of 2x2 and it's between Las Vegas and Boulder City.

It might be the case that the road is still officially I-515 and not yet I-11 but it is presently signed I-11.

Okay, so what you wrote is technically correct. It would have been more accurate and less misleading to say that two mile section was between Wagonwheel Dr/Boulder Hwy and Railroad Pass, as that part is two miles and two lanes each way. To my knowledge, the section between College Drive and Wagonwheel Dr/Boulder Hwy is still signed as I-515, and is three lanes each way.


For the record, I agree that it might have been better to extend the three lane section down to the Business 93 split.

There appears to be existing pavement that would accommodate three lanes through the Wagonwheel interchange. But it would have required some widening in the median (including the overpasses just south of Wagonwheel) between that interchange and the start of the Phase 1 bypass section. It would've been better to do that work with Phase 1 than to go back and do it later. I'm guessing that wasn't part of the environmental review and/or NDOT didn't think traffic volumes would justify widening now.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: michravera on July 08, 2018, 11:26:00 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 29, 2018, 06:40:53 PM
Quote from: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:27:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 26, 2018, 04:46:00 PM
The remainder of the corridor will likely depend upon the pace of progress on the new-terrain segments south of Wickenburg; not likely that ADOT will prioritize the Wickenburg-I-40 segment until at least a path connecting to the PHX freeway network has been finalized.

They seem to be putting a fair amount of effort into fourlaning the part through the hills, but I can't imagine any of it being designated part of I-11 until the entire route from I-40 to somewhere around Phoenix is pretty much done.

But that's fine. Not every road has to be an Interstate.


AZDOT seems to be handling the Wickenburg to I-40 segment in a similar fashion to Caltrans' approach to CA 58 out in the desert:  do the 4-laning first, preferably to Interstate geometry, and add any niceties like interchanges and/or grade separations at a later date, when the final push toward Interstate status is imminent -- the primary difference is that the I-11 designation, while technically an "unfunded mandate" is ingrained in the U.S. Code, while anything Interstate-wise over CA 58 remains simply speculation.  So not everything has to be an Interstate -- but in the case of at least the legal designation of I-11, that's a fait accompli.  When it'll be completed is anyone's guess!
Is anyone running a book on which will be completed first: CASR-58 Freeway from I-5 to I-15 or US-93 from I-40 to I-15?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 08, 2018, 03:42:24 PM
Quote from: michravera on July 08, 2018, 11:26:00 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 29, 2018, 06:40:53 PM
Quote from: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:27:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 26, 2018, 04:46:00 PM
The remainder of the corridor will likely depend upon the pace of progress on the new-terrain segments south of Wickenburg; not likely that ADOT will prioritize the Wickenburg-I-40 segment until at least a path connecting to the PHX freeway network has been finalized.

They seem to be putting a fair amount of effort into fourlaning the part through the hills, but I can't imagine any of it being designated part of I-11 until the entire route from I-40 to somewhere around Phoenix is pretty much done.

But that's fine. Not every road has to be an Interstate.


AZDOT seems to be handling the Wickenburg to I-40 segment in a similar fashion to Caltrans' approach to CA 58 out in the desert:  do the 4-laning first, preferably to Interstate geometry, and add any niceties like interchanges and/or grade separations at a later date, when the final push toward Interstate status is imminent -- the primary difference is that the I-11 designation, while technically an "unfunded mandate" is ingrained in the U.S. Code, while anything Interstate-wise over CA 58 remains simply speculation.  So not everything has to be an Interstate -- but in the case of at least the legal designation of I-11, that's a fait accompli.  When it'll be completed is anyone's guess!
Is anyone running a book on which will be completed first: CASR-58 Freeway from I-5 to I-15 or US-93 from I-40 to I-15?

As a full/Interstate-grade freeway, I'd certainly put my $$ on US 93(I-11).  As a free-flowing (expressway/freeway, no signals or commercial-access incursion) facility, definitely CA 58 (simply because of the Kramer project).  For CA 58, once it's a 4-lane facility -- regardless of grade separation status -- from I-5 to I-15, Caltrans will probably tend to consider it a fait accompli and move on to something else until some outside source exerts pressure for further upgrades.   
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on July 10, 2018, 02:48:36 PM
According to the Boulder City NV Facebook page, the grand opening of I-11 will be Thursday, August 9th.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 10, 2018, 03:55:25 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on July 10, 2018, 02:48:36 PM
According to the Boulder City NV Facebook page, the grand opening of I-11 will be Thursday, August 9th.

I'm wondering if that will prompt resigning of I-515 south of the I-215 interchange -- or will that be postponed until the "cleanup" of the Railroad Pass segment, including the final lane configuration.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on July 10, 2018, 09:15:32 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on July 10, 2018, 02:48:36 PM
According to the Boulder City NV Facebook page, the grand opening of I-11 will be Thursday, August 9th.
Great news! Thanks for spreading the word.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on July 21, 2018, 08:12:47 PM
Apparently, there was an opportunity for the public to ride bikes on I-11 today...although unlike other similar infrastructure opening events held by NDOT, this one had a fee to participate.

Las Vegas bicyclists gear up for special ride on Interstate 11 (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-bicyclists-gear-up-for-special-ride-on-interstate-11/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 7/19/18
Quote
Bicyclists will rule the road on Saturday morning, when just about anyone will be allowed to pedal along most of Interstate 11 before it opens to vehicle traffic.

Motorists won't be allowed to travel along I-11 until Aug. 9, but bicyclists will be allowed to access the country's newest interstate from 6 to 9 a.m. during an event sponsored by the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition.
<...>
The cost is $20 to participate, with funds going toward the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition's safety advocacy campaign.
<...>
NDOT's 2 ½-mile concrete segment of I-11 opened in late May. The RTC plans to open its 12 1/2 -mile asphalt section of the freeway on Aug. 9, allowing drivers to bypass Boulder City on the way to the Hoover Dam.

EDIT: Another article with pictures from the event:
Las Vegas Valley bicyclists celebrate new Interstate 11 segment (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-valley-bicyclists-celebrate-new-interstate-11-segment/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 7/21/18
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Alex on July 22, 2018, 10:42:07 AM
Drove what is opened thus far of I-11 a week ago today. Also noted that a PT Cruiser went past the barrels and continued to the yet to open US 95 off-ramp from southbound.

Posted a few photos of I-11 at Railroad Pass on Intagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/BlR8aFOHO0h/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link).

Also of note, presently the eastbound lanes of U.S. 93 (the eventual U.S. 93 Business) are using what was the southbound ramps for Nevada 172. There's just the one shield northbound on the segment around Hoover Dam and none southbound.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 22, 2018, 01:47:14 PM
Quote from: roadfro on July 21, 2018, 08:12:47 PM
Apparently, there was an opportunity for the public to ride bikes on I-11 today...although unlike other similar infrastructure opening events held by NDOT, this one had a fee to participate.

Las Vegas bicyclists gear up for special ride on Interstate 11 (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-bicyclists-gear-up-for-special-ride-on-interstate-11/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 7/19/18
Quote
Bicyclists will rule the road on Saturday morning, when just about anyone will be allowed to pedal along most of Interstate 11 before it opens to vehicle traffic.

Motorists won't be allowed to travel along I-11 until Aug. 9, but bicyclists will be allowed to access the country's newest interstate from 6 to 9 a.m. during an event sponsored by the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition.
<...>
The cost is $20 to participate, with funds going toward the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition's safety advocacy campaign.
<...>
NDOT's 2 ½-mile concrete segment of I-11 opened in late May. The RTC plans to open its 12 1/2 -mile asphalt section of the freeway on Aug. 9, allowing drivers to bypass Boulder City on the way to the Hoover Dam.

EDIT: Another article with pictures from the event:
Las Vegas Valley bicyclists celebrate new Interstate 11 segment (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-valley-bicyclists-celebrate-new-interstate-11-segment/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 7/21/18

Within the "I-49/Arkansas" thread over in Mid-South, there's been a discussion about a specific form of rumble strip consisting of shallow rectangles cut out of the pavement just to the outside of the lane marker; on that segment (Bella Vista) of I-49 those were concrete.  If you look at the video cited immediately above (the bicycle ride), it appears that the method has found its way to NV, but with asphalt cutouts.  This is a departure from the former normative methodology consisting of narrow lateral slots a foot or two to the outside of the lane edges.  Having not driven much in the way of new -alignment freeway pavement in the last few years, I haven't come across this type of rumble strip (although the premise of indicators adjacent to the carriageway makes a lot of sense) as of yet.  My question is this:  is this method something that is now being generally applied to new construction or just with projects undertaken by specific jurisdictions (like ARDOT and NDOT, of course)?   :hmmm:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on July 23, 2018, 10:33:50 AM
Quote from: sparker on July 22, 2018, 01:47:14 PM
Quote from: roadfro on July 21, 2018, 08:12:47 PM
Apparently, there was an opportunity for the public to ride bikes on I-11 today...although unlike other similar infrastructure opening events held by NDOT, this one had a fee to participate.

Las Vegas bicyclists gear up for special ride on Interstate 11 (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-bicyclists-gear-up-for-special-ride-on-interstate-11/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 7/19/18
Quote
Bicyclists will rule the road on Saturday morning, when just about anyone will be allowed to pedal along most of Interstate 11 before it opens to vehicle traffic.

Motorists won't be allowed to travel along I-11 until Aug. 9, but bicyclists will be allowed to access the country's newest interstate from 6 to 9 a.m. during an event sponsored by the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition.
<...>
The cost is $20 to participate, with funds going toward the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition's safety advocacy campaign.
<...>
NDOT's 2 ½-mile concrete segment of I-11 opened in late May. The RTC plans to open its 12 1/2 -mile asphalt section of the freeway on Aug. 9, allowing drivers to bypass Boulder City on the way to the Hoover Dam.

EDIT: Another article with pictures from the event:
Las Vegas Valley bicyclists celebrate new Interstate 11 segment (https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/las-vegas-valley-bicyclists-celebrate-new-interstate-11-segment/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 7/21/18

Within the "I-49/Arkansas" thread over in Mid-South, there's been a discussion about a specific form of rumble strip consisting of shallow rectangles cut out of the pavement just to the outside of the lane marker; on that segment (Bella Vista) of I-49 those were concrete.  If you look at the video cited immediately above (the bicycle ride), it appears that the method has found its way to NV, but with asphalt cutouts.  This is a departure from the former normative methodology consisting of narrow lateral slots a foot or two to the outside of the lane edges.  Having not driven much in the way of new -alignment freeway pavement in the last few years, I haven't come across this type of rumble strip (although the premise of indicators adjacent to the carriageway makes a lot of sense) as of yet.  My question is this:  is this method something that is now being generally applied to new construction or just with projects undertaken by specific jurisdictions (like ARDOT and NDOT, of course)?   :hmmm:

This style of rumble strip has been pretty standard in Nevada for many years–at least the last 15 years, if not 20 years or more. I'm not sure that it has been used with PCC pavements (possible reason why the NDOT Phase 1 segment has Botts Dots on the outside shoulders), but is very common with asphalt pavements.

Both shoulder and centerline rumble strips are now common on Nevada's two-lane rural highways. Due to safety concerns about increasing crossover head-on collisions about a decade ago, NDOT started installing centerline rumble strips on a lot of state highways, even without repaving. It's a safe bet that almost every segment of two-lane US highway and most major state routes has both types them installed. Examples: US 95 north of Beatty (https://goo.gl/maps/wgcLp6YmbFQ2), US 395 near Topaz Lake (https://goo.gl/maps/TKCza11nvX32)

Rumble strips also been used on multilane facilities in rural, and sometimes exurban areas. Examples: I-80 east approaching Carlin Tunnels (https://goo.gl/maps/hPEXKKxBsav), US 395 ALT in Washoe Valley (https://goo.gl/maps/YaG5b9wo8vH2) (has centerline strips only in sections, due to exurban nature and former high traffic counts from the US 395 days). In fact, a newer trend on multilane facilities (not yet universal) is to have the shoulder rumble strips situated on the lane line instead of just outside it. Example: I-80 just outside Carlin (https://goo.gl/maps/RjATNHuGmDQ2)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on July 23, 2018, 03:25:20 PM
Good info!  I'll be heading to SLC to visit a cousin this fall, and will definitely keep an eye out for those lane-line strips near Carlin -- probably a good thing considering the presence of the nearby tunnels! 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 05, 2018, 01:47:48 PM
An article on how the Boulder City business/tourism sector is hoping to cope with the soon-to-open I-11/US 93 bypass:

Boulder City residents adapting as new I-11 bypass opens (https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/boulder-city-residents-adapting-as-new-i-11-bypass-opens/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 8/4/18

Quote
Boulder City residents are fairly confident the city that built Hoover Dam will not become a ghost town when the Interstate 11 bypass opens this week.

Some businesspeople are nervous that thousands of customers won't find their way to Boulder City streets. Others are happy that the regular weekend traffic jams will soon go away.

An estimated 34,000 vehicles use the existing U.S. Highway 93 route through the city.

"It literally was a 50-50 split"  between people who favored or disliked the new 15-mile stretch of highway, which opens Thursday, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce CEO Jill Lagan said.

The Nevada Department of Transportation says the new road will trim 30 minutes of drive time between Las Vegas and the Arizona border if travelers bypass Boulder City. A group of residents and businesspeople has been working to ensure that travelers will have a reason not to.
<...>

The remainder of the bypass is expected to open Thursday 8/9/18
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 05, 2018, 05:46:13 PM
Early this morning, I definitely did not ride my bicycle past the many Road Closed signs, so I definitely did not see what I am reporting here. :) :)

That said, I was surprised to find an at-grade crossing on the new freeway. It's about 3 miles east of US 95, and there's an access ramp that's apparently for fire vehicles. There are fire-engine yellow diamond signs with flashers that, presumably, are triggered when a vehicle is about to use the crossover. It's an access road that heads south off I-11 and down a curve to Buchanan, where there's a card-entry gate blocking normal access. But it's clear that emergency vehicles heading west/north on I-11 can make a left turn across south/east traffic to use the ramp.

The access is to the Mead substation, "a major electric power interconnection point in the western United States," which is about 0.1 mile south of the freeway.

(Sorry, no pics -- I didn't want to linger and attract attention.)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 06, 2018, 09:12:45 AM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 05, 2018, 05:46:13 PM
Early this morning, I definitely did not ride my bicycle past the many Road Closed signs, so I definitely did not see what I am reporting here. :) :)

That said, I was surprised to find an at-grade crossing on the new freeway. It's about 3 miles east of US 95, and there's an access ramp that's apparently for fire vehicles. There are fire-engine yellow diamond signs with flashers that, presumably, are triggered when a vehicle is about to use the crossover. It's an access road that heads south off I-11 and down a curve to Buchanan, where there's a card-entry gate blocking normal access. But it's clear that emergency vehicles heading west/north on I-11 can make a left turn across south/east traffic to use the ramp.

The access is to the Mead substation, "a major electric power interconnection point in the western United States," which is about 0.1 mile south of the freeway.

(Sorry, no pics -- I didn't want to linger and attract attention.)

Interesting... I think in original plans many years ago, there was a proposal to put an "emergency access only" interchange at the spot you're describing. Sounds like they went with this cheaper alternative.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 06, 2018, 01:14:56 PM
I'm somewhat surprised that Buchanan didn't get a full diamond.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on August 06, 2018, 01:57:12 PM
Saw this link earlier...a preview video of I-11 SB (lanes are striped) and some pics:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/news-columns/road-warrior/i-11-offers-visual-treat-for-southern-nevada-motorists/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 06, 2018, 01:58:32 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 05, 2018, 01:47:48 PM
An article on how the Boulder City business/tourism sector is hoping to cope with the soon-to-open I-11/US 93 bypass:

Boulder City residents adapting as new I-11 bypass opens (https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/boulder-city-residents-adapting-as-new-i-11-bypass-opens/), Las Vegas Review-Journal, 8/4/18

Quote
Boulder City residents are fairly confident the city that built Hoover Dam will not become a ghost town when the Interstate 11 bypass opens this week.

Some businesspeople are nervous that thousands of customers won't find their way to Boulder City streets. Others are happy that the regular weekend traffic jams will soon go away.

An estimated 34,000 vehicles use the existing U.S. Highway 93 route through the city.

"It literally was a 50-50 split"  between people who favored or disliked the new 15-mile stretch of highway, which opens Thursday, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce CEO Jill Lagan said.

The Nevada Department of Transportation says the new road will trim 30 minutes of drive time between Las Vegas and the Arizona border if travelers bypass Boulder City. A group of residents and businesspeople has been working to ensure that travelers will have a reason not to.
<...>

The remainder of the bypass is expected to open Thursday 8/9/18

Given that Boulder City is the first real town with multiple choices for gas, food and lodging on northbound I-11/US 93 after Kingman, AZ, I don't think they will suffer that much.  I think they get more business from northbound travelers and people visiting the lake/dam than they do from people leaving Las Vegas heading South.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: myosh_tino on August 06, 2018, 02:20:22 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on August 06, 2018, 01:57:12 PM
Saw this link earlier...a preview video of I-11 SB (lanes are striped) and some pics:

https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/news-columns/road-warrior/i-11-offers-visual-treat-for-southern-nevada-motorists/

Interesting to see that NDOT is still using Botts Dotts for lane lines.  In fact, it looks like that's all they're using.  Caltrans, before it banished Botts Dotts earlier this year, had always used a combination of paint and Botts Dotts going back at least 10 years.  Some local municipalities still use Botts Dotts to denote lane lines or center lines with or without paint.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on August 06, 2018, 04:11:01 PM
IMHO, Boulder City is such a cool little city that has some incredible houses and a really cool little downtown which I think is heavily underutilized.

I've always thought it'd be sick if a super long gondola system were built from Boulder City to Hoover Damn that showed the historical construction as you progressed on some sort of futuristic screen tech(LOL) that was projected onto the glass. Almost like virtual reality, but where it's just projected on a screen. I don't know what the name for name for that technology is.

But regardless of that crazy idea, Boulder City's downtown is lovely today and I am always surprised to see there never seems to be many others around at any time. I hope to get my first house in Boulder City soon. Very cool area.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on August 06, 2018, 04:56:40 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 06, 2018, 01:14:56 PM
I'm somewhat surprised that Buchanan didn't get a full diamond.
It is my understanding that the city of Boulder City specifically did NOT want an interchange there, but you'd think that the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) would have desired it. As it is, the emergency access ramp at that location can be used by WAPA for deliveries of large equipment by prior arrangement with NDOT.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 07, 2018, 10:45:33 AM
Quote from: myosh_tino on August 06, 2018, 02:20:22 PM
Interesting to see that NDOT is still using Botts Dotts for lane lines.  In fact, it looks like that's all they're using.  Caltrans, before it banished Botts Dotts earlier this year, had always used a combination of paint and Botts Dotts going back at least 10 years.  Some local municipalities still use Botts Dotts to denote lane lines or center lines with or without paint.

Raised pavement markers, without underlying paint, is still standard issue in Clark County. NDOT and all the local agencies use this as their primary lane marking method.

The section of I-15 between Tropicana and the 215 uses RPMs on top of white lane lines. Not sure if this was an experiment or an error. It's still the only place in Nevada I can think of that this is done.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 09, 2018, 08:02:15 AM
Opening day...

Wish I was there.  It would be kind of cool to drive on a brand new Interstate...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on August 09, 2018, 04:22:49 PM
One (of probably many) opening day clips:

https://www.facebook.com/bouldercitynv/videos/2209689085712529/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: theroadwayone on August 09, 2018, 05:06:55 PM
The official Review-Journal article:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/traffic/nations-newest-freeway-15-mile-stretch-of-i-11-ready-to-roll/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 10, 2018, 05:31:12 PM
Google Maps now has the Boulder City bypass both marked as a road and signed as I-11.

Apple Maps also has it mapped, at least on my iPad.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 11, 2018, 12:14:25 PM
^ Google Maps doesn't quite have the geometry right at the Exit 2 interchange...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 11, 2018, 01:44:59 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 11, 2018, 12:14:25 PM
^ Google Maps doesn't quite have the geometry right at the Exit 2 interchange...

Yeah, I noticed that, it's odd.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on August 11, 2018, 05:43:35 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 11, 2018, 12:14:25 PM
^ Google Maps doesn't quite have the geometry right at the Exit 2 interchange...

Not at the US 95 interchange either, it would appear. It shows an extra NB-to-WB ramp which would have to be quite awkward to drive.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: skluth on August 11, 2018, 11:49:55 PM
Quote from: US 89 on August 11, 2018, 05:43:35 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 11, 2018, 12:14:25 PM
^ Google Maps doesn't quite have the geometry right at the Exit 2 interchange...

Not at the US 95 interchange either, it would appear. It shows an extra NB-to-WB ramp which would have to be quite awkward to drive.

:-D That would be one amazing flyover
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on August 12, 2018, 02:38:28 AM
Some I-11 videos from Youtube (not the best quality):

Southbound https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn7PKJpgVMo&t=218s

Northbound https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGIXA7G_344&t=6s

Covering both directions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU8vw1D0n8g
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 12, 2018, 02:01:41 PM
One observation — there are still some places where Needles is the control city for US 95 southbound in Nevada. Searchlight's population of less than 600 is... notably small, especially compared to the 50,000 people who live between Bullhead City and Laughlin, and the 5,000 who live in Needles. Anyway, just odd to me that that wound up as the control city for the 95 South exit, with no other "Laughlin / Bullhead City / Needles - Next right" noted.

Also odd to me — I would think that Hoover Dam would be more prominently signed on Exit 2, I.E. "Boulder City - Hoover Dam" on the BGS, not on a next-right brown sign.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: TimQuiQui on August 12, 2018, 06:34:25 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 11, 2018, 01:44:59 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 11, 2018, 12:14:25 PM
^ Google Maps doesn't quite have the geometry right at the Exit 2 interchange...

Yeah, I noticed that, it's odd.

If you compare the map location versus the satelitte imagery of the last three miles or so approaching Hoover Dam, you'll notice the road seems to be a couple hundred feet off mapwise versus its realistic location, which does culminate in the very inaccurate meeting 93N meeting point.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: howlincoyote2k1 on August 13, 2018, 01:57:00 AM
 :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: for NDOT adding a truck climbing lane on NB I-11 after Hoover Dam. The grades through there must be pretty steep but I'm really glad it's there.

I'll be driving this road southbound on Friday  :biggrin:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: barcncpt44 on August 13, 2018, 10:49:53 AM
The YouTube channel rockersk08 has covered the new bypass.
https://youtu.be/cGHctcTwuNQ
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: rickmastfan67 on August 13, 2018, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: barcncpt44 on August 13, 2018, 10:49:53 AM
The YouTube channel rockersk08 has covered the new bypass.
https://youtu.be/cGHctcTwuNQ

Love the 'fail' @ 1:52 where they claim the 'last new section of Interstate' was I-70 through Glenwood Canyon back in October of 1992.  Um, what about I-73 or I-74 new build alignments?  They trump I-70 on the date scale. lol.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 13, 2018, 12:41:14 PM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on August 13, 2018, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: barcncpt44 on August 13, 2018, 10:49:53 AM
The YouTube channel rockersk08 has covered the new bypass.
https://youtu.be/cGHctcTwuNQ

Love the 'fail' @ 1:52 where they claim the 'last new section of Interstate' was I-70 through Glenwood Canyon back in October of 1992.  Um, what about I-73 or I-74 new build alignments?  They trump I-70 on the date scale. lol.

Also:  I-22, much of I-49, I-69 in IN, I-41 (or at least the efforts to bring it up to standards)...........the list goes on.  But then, the general press has rarely gotten their facts correct regarding transportation issues; this is simply the latest in a long history of errors  -- often made in the process of proffering overly dramatic statements about the project at hand! :poke:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sonic99 on August 14, 2018, 05:25:55 AM
I'm curious about the "official" start/end of I-11. Has I-11 replaced I-515 up to the 215 interchange? Or does 515 still exist, and is also I-11 at the same time? Or do they plan on slowly phasing out I-515 signage between the new bypass and the 215 interchange and eventually the whole thing is solely known as I-11? According to Google Maps, it's still 515 and changes to I-11 around the overpass over Paradise Hills Dr?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on August 14, 2018, 08:34:05 AM
Quote from: Sonic99 on August 14, 2018, 05:25:55 AM
I'm curious about the "official" start/end of I-11. Has I-11 replaced I-515 up to the 215 interchange? Or does 515 still exist, and is also I-11 at the same time? Or do they plan on slowly phasing out I-515 signage between the new bypass and the 215 interchange and eventually the whole thing is solely known as I-11? According to Google Maps, it's still 515 and changes to I-11 around the overpass over Paradise Hills Dr?
The I-215 interchange is now the terminus of both I-515 and I-11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 14, 2018, 08:44:04 AM
Quote from: Sonic99 on August 14, 2018, 05:25:55 AM
I'm curious about the "official" start/end of I-11. Has I-11 replaced I-515 up to the 215 interchange? Or does 515 still exist, and is also I-11 at the same time? Or do they plan on slowly phasing out I-515 signage between the new bypass and the 215 interchange and eventually the whole thing is solely known as I-11? According to Google Maps, it's still 515 and changes to I-11 around the overpass over Paradise Hills Dr?

I-11 is supposed to be signed from the I-515 and I-215 Interchange south to the Arizona State Line.  I think a signing contract is in place, but the signing itself has not taken place yet.

It's route north from their has yet to be determined.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 14, 2018, 04:22:29 PM
That didn't take long: The first fatality on I-11, which is now closed northbound at NV Exit 2.
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/1-dead-in-i-11-crash-near-boulder-city-northbound-lanes-closed/

QuoteThe Nevada Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle crash resulting in at least one fatality on the new Interstate 11 Boulder City bypass on Tuesday morning.

Northbound I-11 is closed near Exit 2.

The crash occurred near where the I-11 meets U.S. Highway 93, Smaka said.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 14, 2018, 04:37:07 PM


Quote from: sparker on August 13, 2018, 12:41:14 PM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on August 13, 2018, 11:01:36 AM

Love the 'fail' @ 1:52 where they claim the 'last new section of Interstate' was I-70 through Glenwood Canyon back in October of 1992.  Um, what about I-73 or I-74 new build alignments?  They trump I-70 on the date scale. lol.

Also:  I-22, much of I-49, I-69 in IN, I-41 (or at least the efforts to bring it up to standards)...........the list goes on.  But then, the general press has rarely gotten their facts correct regarding transportation issues; this is simply the latest in a long history of errors  -- often made in the process of proffering overly dramatic statements about the project at hand! :poke:

Despite this, the claim has been consistently made in local media coverage–if you look at most of the LVRJ articles I've posted in this thread over the last few years, that claim is there.

I find the claim suspect as well... It may depend on how they're defining "new interstate"...
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 14, 2018, 04:51:02 PM



Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on August 14, 2018, 08:34:05 AM
Quote from: Sonic99 on August 14, 2018, 05:25:55 AM
I'm curious about the "official" start/end of I-11. Has I-11 replaced I-515 up to the 215 interchange? Or does 515 still exist, and is also I-11 at the same time? Or do they plan on slowly phasing out I-515 signage between the new bypass and the 215 interchange and eventually the whole thing is solely known as I-11? According to Google Maps, it's still 515 and changes to I-11 around the overpass over Paradise Hills Dr?
The I-215 interchange is now the terminus of both I-515 and I-11.

Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 14, 2018, 08:44:04 AM
I-11 is supposed to be signed from the I-515 and I-215 Interchange south to the Arizona State Line.  I think a signing contract is in place, but the signing itself has not taken place yet.

It's route north from their has yet to be determined.

As of completion and opening of the Boulder City Bypass last week, I-11 is only signed from the AZ state line to the Paradise Hills/Foothills grade separation just south of the Wagon wheel/Boulder Hwy interchange and not yet signed further north. If it has been signed over I-515 up to the 215 interchange, that changeover has been suspiciously absent from the media coverage... (I'm not in Vegas to personally verify.)

NDOT received AASHTO/FHWA approval for the resigning several years ago. NDOT's current annual work program or STIP (don't remember which) includes funding for a resigning project. I'm not sure if a contract has been put out to bid or signed though...

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on August 14, 2018, 05:57:49 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 14, 2018, 04:51:02 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on August 14, 2018, 08:34:05 AM
Quote from: Sonic99 on August 14, 2018, 05:25:55 AM
I'm curious about the "official" start/end of I-11. Has I-11 replaced I-515 up to the 215 interchange? Or does 515 still exist, and is also I-11 at the same time? Or do they plan on slowly phasing out I-515 signage between the new bypass and the 215 interchange and eventually the whole thing is solely known as I-11? According to Google Maps, it's still 515 and changes to I-11 around the overpass over Paradise Hills Dr?
The I-215 interchange is now the terminus of both I-515 and I-11.

Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 14, 2018, 08:44:04 AM
I-11 is supposed to be signed from the I-515 and I-215 Interchange south to the Arizona State Line.  I think a signing contract is in place, but the signing itself has not taken place yet.

It's route north from their has yet to be determined.

As of completion and opening of the Boulder City Bypass last week, I-11 is only signed from the AZ state line to the Paradise Hills/Foothills grade separation just south of the Wagon wheel/Boulder Hwy interchange and not yet signed further north. If it has been signed over I-515 up to the 215 interchange, that changeover has been suspiciously absent from the media coverage... (I'm not in Vegas to personally verify.)

NDOT received AASHTO/FHWA approval for the resigning several years ago. NDOT's current annual work program or STIP (don't remember which) includes funding for a resigning project. I'm not sure if a contract has been put out to bid or signed though...

Is this resigning project going to include renumbering the exits on I-515 south of the 215 junction? I believe they're currently based on US 95, not 93.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on August 14, 2018, 06:15:45 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 14, 2018, 04:51:02 PM



Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on August 14, 2018, 08:34:05 AM
Quote from: Sonic99 on August 14, 2018, 05:25:55 AM
I'm curious about the "official" start/end of I-11. Has I-11 replaced I-515 up to the 215 interchange? Or does 515 still exist, and is also I-11 at the same time? Or do they plan on slowly phasing out I-515 signage between the new bypass and the 215 interchange and eventually the whole thing is solely known as I-11? According to Google Maps, it's still 515 and changes to I-11 around the overpass over Paradise Hills Dr?
The I-215 interchange is now the terminus of both I-515 and I-11.

Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 14, 2018, 08:44:04 AM
I-11 is supposed to be signed from the I-515 and I-215 Interchange south to the Arizona State Line.  I think a signing contract is in place, but the signing itself has not taken place yet.

It's route north from their has yet to be determined.

As of completion and opening of the Boulder City Bypass last week, I-11 is only signed from the AZ state line to the Paradise Hills/Foothills grade separation just south of the Wagon wheel/Boulder Hwy interchange and not yet signed further north. If it has been signed over I-515 up to the 215 interchange, that changeover has been suspiciously absent from the media coverage... (I'm not in Vegas to personally verify.)

NDOT received AASHTO/FHWA approval for the resigning several years ago. NDOT's current annual work program or STIP (don't remember which) includes funding for a resigning project. I'm not sure if a contract has been put out to bid or signed though...

Based on this video, I-515 still exists north of Wagonwheel/Boulder Highway. I'm assuming NDOT will change exit numbers and mileposts to reflect I-11 whenever the changeover happens south of I-215.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZ39AauVRyQ
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 15, 2018, 02:01:21 AM
Quote from: US 89 on August 14, 2018, 05:57:49 PM
Is this resigning project going to include renumbering the exits on I-515 south of the 215 junction? I believe they're currently based on US 95, not 93.
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on August 14, 2018, 06:15:45 PM
Based on this video, I-515 still exists north of Wagonwheel/Boulder Highway. I'm assuming NDOT will change exit numbers and mileposts to reflect I-11 whenever the changeover happens south of I-215.

The information I've seen is not clear. It simply states it's a resigning project.

I imagine it will include completely new signage reassurance shields, replacing I-515 shields at freeway entrance assemblies, and updating to BGSs on I-215/SR 564. Some of the BGSs along this southern section of I-515 are quite tired as well (some possibly dating to original construction circa 1994-95), so there might be full sign replacements.

Changing of mileposts and exit numbers is much more uncertain. I-515 has always used the US 95 mileposting and exit numbering, so I'm not sure how keen NDOT will be to change some of that–especially given that the final I-11 route through Las Vegas is not yet decided. If they were to select the eastern bypass route, renumbering I-515 would be pointless as I-11 would diverge east around Railroad Pass (current northern terminus) anyway. <see the "Interstate 11, through Vegas and points north (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7881.0)" thread for further discussion on that>
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 15, 2018, 02:01:21 AM
Quote from: US 89 on August 14, 2018, 05:57:49 PM
Is this resigning project going to include renumbering the exits on I-515 south of the 215 junction? I believe they're currently based on US 95, not 93.
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on August 14, 2018, 06:15:45 PM
Based on this video, I-515 still exists north of Wagonwheel/Boulder Highway. I'm assuming NDOT will change exit numbers and mileposts to reflect I-11 whenever the changeover happens south of I-215.

The information I've seen is not clear. It simply states it's a resigning project.

I imagine it will include completely new signage reassurance shields, replacing I-515 shields at freeway entrance assemblies, and updating to BGSs on I-215/SR 564. Some of the BGSs along this southern section of I-515 are quite tired as well (some possibly dating to original construction circa 1994-95), so there might be full sign replacements.

Changing of mileposts and exit numbers is much more uncertain. I-515 has always used the US 95 mileposting and exit numbering, so I'm not sure how keen NDOT will be to change some of that–especially given that the final I-11 route through Las Vegas is not yet decided. If they were to select the eastern bypass route, renumbering I-515 would be pointless as I-11 would diverge east around Railroad Pass (current northern terminus) anyway. <see the "Interstate 11, through Vegas and points north (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7881.0)" thread for further discussion on that>
Regardless of which option is chosen for I-11 north of Henderson, it will NOT affect exit number assignments southeast of the Beltway, as they are reckoned from south to north. So NDOT has NO excuse not to go ahead now and reassign the numbers for the 4 exits along former I-515 (now I-11). Other locales have had exit numbers reassigned (hell, INDOT did that for 157 miles on "Classic I-69" from Indy to Michigan), the locals will adapt and get used to it!

BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on August 16, 2018, 06:59:41 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.

IIRC, when the 215 beltway was being planned, the eastern side was sited relatively close-in -- essentially directly south from the north 215/15 interchange; that area is now inundated with housing and commercial development and thus no longer being considered.  However, the suggested I-11 corridor was further east and actually along the edge (or even within for part of its length) the Lake Mead recreation area, well past the outskirts of the housing tracts.  That actually diverged from the current alignment near Railroad Pass (rather than the current 215/515 junction), and apparently has some degree of local support -- and is still in the corridor "mix", although an exact alignment has yet to be identified.  It's likely any support for this eastern concept stems from the desire to divert through traffic away from the already congested downtown area so as not to add any additional long-distance traffic to what's already there.  Since any outflung eastern corridor would likely entail considerable expense due to less-than-favorable terrain, construction would probably not be programmed in the near term.  IMO, an eastern corridor is simply a diversion from the task of getting I-11 through the area; I'd simply run it straight down I-515/US 95 and let the western 215 beltway handle any "overages". 
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 16, 2018, 09:24:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 16, 2018, 06:59:41 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.

IIRC, when the 215 beltway was being planned, the eastern side was sited relatively close-in -- essentially directly south from the north 215/15 interchange; that area is now inundated with housing and commercial development and thus no longer being considered.  However, the suggested I-11 corridor was further east and actually along the edge (or even within for part of its length) the Lake Mead recreation area, well past the outskirts of the housing tracts.  That actually diverged from the current alignment near Railroad Pass (rather than the current 215/515 junction), and apparently has some degree of local support -- and is still in the corridor "mix", although an exact alignment has yet to be identified.  It's likely any support for this eastern concept stems from the desire to divert through traffic away from the already congested downtown area so as not to add any additional long-distance traffic to what's already there.  Since any outflung eastern corridor would likely entail considerable expense due to less-than-favorable terrain, construction would probably not be programmed in the near term.  IMO, an eastern corridor is simply a diversion from the task of getting I-11 through the area; I'd simply run it straight down I-515/US 95 and let the western 215 beltway handle any "overages".

Yeah, the 215 East Leg proposal was more of a 415 — it came in near Russell Road and then north along Lamb or Nellis to I-15. The I-11 east alignment proposal, I believe, goes east of Frenchman's Mountain through some sensitive environmental areas. So......... yeah. Not happening. I do tend to think that a "93 bypass"  for Utah-Arizona freight traffic would be helpful, but run from Mesquite to Kingman, east of Gold Butte as a 2-lane highway instead.

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 17, 2018, 01:09:56 AM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 16, 2018, 09:24:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 16, 2018, 06:59:41 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.

IIRC, when the 215 beltway was being planned, the eastern side was sited relatively close-in -- essentially directly south from the north 215/15 interchange; that area is now inundated with housing and commercial development and thus no longer being considered.  However, the suggested I-11 corridor was further east and actually along the edge (or even within for part of its length) the Lake Mead recreation area, well past the outskirts of the housing tracts.  That actually diverged from the current alignment near Railroad Pass (rather than the current 215/515 junction), and apparently has some degree of local support -- and is still in the corridor "mix", although an exact alignment has yet to be identified.  It's likely any support for this eastern concept stems from the desire to divert through traffic away from the already congested downtown area so as not to add any additional long-distance traffic to what's already there.  Since any outflung eastern corridor would likely entail considerable expense due to less-than-favorable terrain, construction would probably not be programmed in the near term.  IMO, an eastern corridor is simply a diversion from the task of getting I-11 through the area; I'd simply run it straight down I-515/US 95 and let the western 215 beltway handle any "overages".

Yeah, the 215 East Leg proposal was more of a 415 — it came in near Russell Road and then north along Lamb or Nellis to I-15. The I-11 east alignment proposal, I believe, goes east of Frenchman's Mountain through some sensitive environmental areas. So......... yeah. Not happening. I do tend to think that a "93 bypass"  for Utah-Arizona freight traffic would be helpful, but run from Mesquite to Kingman, east of Gold Butte as a 2-lane highway instead.

To expand on this tangent for a moment: When the 215 beltway was planned in the early 1990s, it was always planned as a three-quarter beltway.  The east side of the Las Vegas Valley was way built up well before the other sides, whereas significant portions of the current beltway was able to be located along right of way that was largely undeveloped at the time. The east leg beltway feasibility study was initiated in the early/mid 2000s, and idea eliminated because ROW was prohibitively expensive.

The east I-11 corridor is still in contention, and is as Sparker and Sub-Urbanite describe. Given it passes through Lake Mead NRA and tougher environment/terrain, I agree that it is the least likely option to be selected.

I think I mentioned elsewhere that a study report for I-11 in Vegas should be forthcoming relatively soon.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: howlincoyote2k1 on August 17, 2018, 05:13:08 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 16, 2018, 09:24:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 16, 2018, 06:59:41 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.

IIRC, when the 215 beltway was being planned, the eastern side was sited relatively close-in -- essentially directly south from the north 215/15 interchange; that area is now inundated with housing and commercial development and thus no longer being considered.  However, the suggested I-11 corridor was further east and actually along the edge (or even within for part of its length) the Lake Mead recreation area, well past the outskirts of the housing tracts.  That actually diverged from the current alignment near Railroad Pass (rather than the current 215/515 junction), and apparently has some degree of local support -- and is still in the corridor "mix", although an exact alignment has yet to be identified.  It's likely any support for this eastern concept stems from the desire to divert through traffic away from the already congested downtown area so as not to add any additional long-distance traffic to what's already there.  Since any outflung eastern corridor would likely entail considerable expense due to less-than-favorable terrain, construction would probably not be programmed in the near term.  IMO, an eastern corridor is simply a diversion from the task of getting I-11 through the area; I'd simply run it straight down I-515/US 95 and let the western 215 beltway handle any "overages".

Yeah, the 215 East Leg proposal was more of a 415 — it came in near Russell Road and then north along Lamb or Nellis to I-15. The I-11 east alignment proposal, I believe, goes east of Frenchman's Mountain through some sensitive environmental areas. So......... yeah. Not happening. I do tend to think that a "93 bypass"  for Utah-Arizona freight traffic would be helpful, but run from Mesquite to Kingman, east of Gold Butte as a 2-lane highway instead.

Pleaseohpleaseohpleaseohplease build this road. This will help travel between Utah and Arizona so much, probably moreso than extending I-17, especially during the winter months when US 89 is snowy and icy.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on August 17, 2018, 06:17:04 PM
Quote from: howlincoyote2k1 on August 17, 2018, 05:13:08 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 16, 2018, 09:24:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 16, 2018, 06:59:41 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.

IIRC, when the 215 beltway was being planned, the eastern side was sited relatively close-in -- essentially directly south from the north 215/15 interchange; that area is now inundated with housing and commercial development and thus no longer being considered.  However, the suggested I-11 corridor was further east and actually along the edge (or even within for part of its length) the Lake Mead recreation area, well past the outskirts of the housing tracts.  That actually diverged from the current alignment near Railroad Pass (rather than the current 215/515 junction), and apparently has some degree of local support -- and is still in the corridor "mix", although an exact alignment has yet to be identified.  It's likely any support for this eastern concept stems from the desire to divert through traffic away from the already congested downtown area so as not to add any additional long-distance traffic to what's already there.  Since any outflung eastern corridor would likely entail considerable expense due to less-than-favorable terrain, construction would probably not be programmed in the near term.  IMO, an eastern corridor is simply a diversion from the task of getting I-11 through the area; I'd simply run it straight down I-515/US 95 and let the western 215 beltway handle any "overages".

Yeah, the 215 East Leg proposal was more of a 415 — it came in near Russell Road and then north along Lamb or Nellis to I-15. The I-11 east alignment proposal, I believe, goes east of Frenchman's Mountain through some sensitive environmental areas. So......... yeah. Not happening. I do tend to think that a "93 bypass"  for Utah-Arizona freight traffic would be helpful, but run from Mesquite to Kingman, east of Gold Butte as a 2-lane highway instead.

Pleaseohpleaseohpleaseohplease build this road. This will help travel between Utah and Arizona so much, probably moreso than extending I-17, especially during the winter months when US 89 is snowy and icy.

There actually used to be one going back to the 1926 map-  https://arizonaroads.com/maps/1926-1.jpg
Seems there was a road from Hackberry (just east of Kingman) up to St. George.  I tried to look at a current aerial to figure out the remnants of that road and what's left of it and can't quite figure it out.  I think because Lake Mead wasn't there that's why.  It does look like it could be the same road that goes up to Meadview, AZ today but ends.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: NE2 on August 17, 2018, 09:37:50 PM
Quote from: kdk on August 17, 2018, 06:17:04 PM
There actually used to be one going back to the 1926 map-  https://arizonaroads.com/maps/1926-1.jpg
Seems there was a road from Hackberry (just east of Kingman) up to St. George.  I tried to look at a current aerial to figure out the remnants of that road and what's left of it and can't quite figure it out.  I think because Lake Mead wasn't there that's why.  It does look like it could be the same road that goes up to Meadview, AZ today but ends.
That was the former Pearce Ferry, but not the modern road through Meadview. According to old topos, the road shown on the 1926 Rand McNally went south alongside Grapevine Wash and Iron Spring Wash, then crossed the pass at Willow Spring and continued southeasterly to Hackberry. Much of it is a 4WD trail on modern topos, but nothing appears south of the pass.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: US 89 on August 18, 2018, 12:26:56 AM
Quote from: kdk on August 17, 2018, 06:17:04 PM
Quote from: howlincoyote2k1 on August 17, 2018, 05:13:08 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 16, 2018, 09:24:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on August 16, 2018, 06:59:41 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on August 16, 2018, 05:16:36 PM
BTW, the Eastern Bypass route option was DOA, and I believe it has been removed from any further consideration.

IIRC, when the 215 beltway was being planned, the eastern side was sited relatively close-in -- essentially directly south from the north 215/15 interchange; that area is now inundated with housing and commercial development and thus no longer being considered.  However, the suggested I-11 corridor was further east and actually along the edge (or even within for part of its length) the Lake Mead recreation area, well past the outskirts of the housing tracts.  That actually diverged from the current alignment near Railroad Pass (rather than the current 215/515 junction), and apparently has some degree of local support -- and is still in the corridor "mix", although an exact alignment has yet to be identified.  It's likely any support for this eastern concept stems from the desire to divert through traffic away from the already congested downtown area so as not to add any additional long-distance traffic to what's already there.  Since any outflung eastern corridor would likely entail considerable expense due to less-than-favorable terrain, construction would probably not be programmed in the near term.  IMO, an eastern corridor is simply a diversion from the task of getting I-11 through the area; I'd simply run it straight down I-515/US 95 and let the western 215 beltway handle any "overages".

Yeah, the 215 East Leg proposal was more of a 415 — it came in near Russell Road and then north along Lamb or Nellis to I-15. The I-11 east alignment proposal, I believe, goes east of Frenchman's Mountain through some sensitive environmental areas. So......... yeah. Not happening. I do tend to think that a "93 bypass"  for Utah-Arizona freight traffic would be helpful, but run from Mesquite to Kingman, east of Gold Butte as a 2-lane highway instead.

Pleaseohpleaseohpleaseohplease build this road. This will help travel between Utah and Arizona so much, probably moreso than extending I-17, especially during the winter months when US 89 is snowy and icy.

There actually used to be one going back to the 1926 map-  https://arizonaroads.com/maps/1926-1.jpg
Seems there was a road from Hackberry (just east of Kingman) up to St. George.  I tried to look at a current aerial to figure out the remnants of that road and what's left of it and can't quite figure it out.  I think because Lake Mead wasn't there that's why.  It does look like it could be the same road that goes up to Meadview, AZ today but ends.

I'd love to see that built, but I just don't see it happening. In addition to the tremendous cost of another major bridge over the Colorado, most of that corridor now lies within the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. That's probably a huge red flag for any future highway construction, especially as this would be a completely new highway corridor.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 20, 2018, 12:40:02 PM
Quote from: US 89 on August 18, 2018, 12:26:56 AM
I'd love to see that built, but I just don't see it happening. In addition to the tremendous cost of another major bridge over the Colorado, most of that corridor now lies within the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. That's probably a huge red flag for any future highway construction, especially as this would be a completely new highway corridor.

I don't doubt that this belongs in the land of fictional highways. But it seems to me that a bridge over the Colorado at Pearce Ferry could be pretty low impact and relatively inexpensive (since the grade is pretty shallow, a simple viaduct might be enough) and a route connecting up the Grand Wash to Gold Butte Road would keep out of the areas protected by the public.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: skluth on August 20, 2018, 04:08:26 PM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 20, 2018, 12:40:02 PM
Quote from: US 89 on August 18, 2018, 12:26:56 AM
I'd love to see that built, but I just don't see it happening. In addition to the tremendous cost of another major bridge over the Colorado, most of that corridor now lies within the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. That's probably a huge red flag for any future highway construction, especially as this would be a completely new highway corridor.

I don't doubt that this belongs in the land of fictional highways. But it seems to me that a bridge over the Colorado at Pearce Ferry could be pretty low impact and relatively inexpensive (since the grade is pretty shallow, a simple viaduct might be enough) and a route connecting up the Grand Wash to Gold Butte Road would keep out of the areas protected by the public.

Low impact? You are putting a major road through an environmentally sensitive area with at least one endangered species (a tortoise). The north shore is nothing but rough terrain requiring a lot of small bridges or box culverts over washes/arroyos (or risk the road washing out). The south side requires a lot of destroying along the ROW to come down from the plateau. Alternatively, you could build a higher bridge but you've shot down your inexpensive argument. The cost to mitigate the environmental impact skyrockets the cost. There may also be some tribal lands involved.

A far east bypass from Boulder City along the west shore of Lake Mead, past the gypsum mine, and connecting to I-15 north of the Speedway would likely be about the same cost and serve more people. It would be significantly shorter, still serve as a bypass to LV, and also help those using Lake Mead. It also doesn't require two states to cooperate (see Bella Vista). It could probably justify a four lane expressway or better for much of it.

I will quit now because we are definitely in fictional here. But understand that your definition of low impact to the environment is not what counts. It's what is determined by an EIS and just a cursory bit of research shows quite an impact.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: oscar on August 21, 2018, 01:56:27 PM
Quote from: pderocco on June 29, 2018, 01:35:37 AM
Quote from: JREwing78 on June 27, 2018, 09:05:15 PM
I'm a little surprised that the Tillman bridge requires tall vehicles to travel in the left lane. There's no apparent reason for it (besides possibly cross-winds), but that's not a common sight outside of work zones.

Most people don't realize that forward motion amplifies the side forces from a crosswind. Truck drivers are supposed to know that, and slow way down, but I doubt most RV drivers do. In extreme crosswinds, I've seen both tractor-trailers and campers blown over on their sides along freeways. Better to land on the roadbed and cause a traffic jam than to go over the side of the bridge and plunge 800 feet to a grisly death.

But they should probably use an electric sign that only puts up that message when the wind is up.

Are there occasions when the Tillman Bridge is completely closed to heavy trucks and other tall vehicles due to high winds? Last I was out there, there were occasional high wind closures, and so the US 93 truck bypass route through Laughlin still had some signs even though most of the time trucks could use the Tillman Bridge.

A related question: does that truck bypass route still exist in some form, or have the DOTs figured out how to managed wind problems with the left-lane restriction and so don't need the bypass anymore?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: oscar on August 21, 2018, 02:07:05 PM
Quote from: roadfro on April 25, 2018, 07:45:12 PM
Quote from: SSR_317 on April 24, 2018, 04:28:45 PM
Quote from: roadfro on April 24, 2018, 03:16:03 PM
I haven't seen a confirmed open date, but it should be relatively soon.

Not sure if the old section of US 95 that has become SR 173 will be signed or unsigned–it's an interesting signage question as there are merits for doing either way (I haven't been out there to check since the new year). I'm more curious about whether old US 93 will have a new state highway number or recycle one of the old numbers that it may have had in the federal aid numbering system (500 or 501). NDOT's log actually has two entries for SR 173, with one appearing to be erroneous, but still shows US 93 in Boulder City and not moved to the I-11 alignment.
The reports I have seen all said "April 2018" for the US 95 interchange partial opening, which is why I asked since the month is almost over. The recent photos I have viewed do not show any State Route signage along the "orphin" section of 95, but do show "TO Business US 93 - Boulder City" on one of the BGSs. The good news is that when the re-routing of 95 is done, anyone heading NB who misses the new turnoff can easily use the "soon to be OLD" route to get back on track. But SB US 95 travelers had better not miss Exit 14 once the full bypass is completed, unless they want to make a 25-mile side trip! Probably a good thing that it will be a mandatory exit for a few months first.

I missed the "second" listing for SR 173, I'll have to go back and review that document again... thanks for the info! I think NDOT intentionally kept US 93 documented on its present routing since it will remain there for most of 2018, until the scheduled October opening of Phase II. Just wish they would provide mileage breakouts at major junctions rather than at urban area limits (or in addition to them) on their State Maintained Highways list. It's difficult to compile a continuous milepoint breakdown for the various routes from the data as presented in its present format.

I just returned from a trip to the Vegas area for work, but unfortunately didn't have opportunity to do any roadgeeking down that way like I wanted.

Now that I'm thinking about it, and having an idea of the final configuration of the Hoover Dam interchange, I'm wondering if old US 93/future US 93 Business will be designated as an extension of SR 172 (whether signed or unsigned).

I agree with your sentiments on the NDOT SMH book. It is difficult to get accurate mileages of some US routes in Nevada because sections overlapping with another US route or Interstate are not called out separately.

I'm trying to nail down the situations with SR 172 and SR 173, for the Travel Mapping project. OpenStreetMap shows old US 95, between I-11 exit 14 and US 93 Business, as SR 173, consistent with NDOT's January 2018 SMH book. Have SR 173 route markers shown up on that stranded segment?

Also, OSM has SR 172 extended along US 93 Business, from 172's old west end at I-11 exit 2 to I-11 exit 15B. That had not become official by the time the January 2018 SMH book was prepared. Is the 172 extension for real, and have SR 172 route markers shown up on US 93 Business?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 21, 2018, 02:32:46 PM
Quote from: oscar on August 21, 2018, 02:07:05 PM
I'm trying to nail down the situations with SR 172 and SR 173, for the Travel Mapping project. OpenStreetMap shows old US 95, between I-11 exit 14 and US 93 Business, as SR 173, consistent with NDOT's January 2018 SMH book. Have SR 173 route markers shown up on that stranded segment?

Also, OSM has SR 172 extended along US 93 Business, from 172's old west end at I-11 exit 2 to I-11 exit 15B. That had not become official by the time the January 2018 SMH book was prepared. Is the 172 extension for real, and have SR 172 route markers shown up on US 93 Business?

As of Sunday, no and no. (Did both routes on a bicycle, so would have had plenty of time to see any new markers.)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 22, 2018, 12:31:38 AM


Quote from: Kniwt on August 21, 2018, 02:32:46 PM
Quote from: oscar on August 21, 2018, 02:07:05 PM
I'm trying to nail down the situations with SR 172 and SR 173, for the Travel Mapping project. OpenStreetMap shows old US 95, between I-11 exit 14 and US 93 Business, as SR 173, consistent with NDOT's January 2018 SMH book. Have SR 173 route markers shown up on that stranded segment?

Also, OSM has SR 172 extended along US 93 Business, from 172's old west end at I-11 exit 2 to I-11 exit 15B. That had not become official by the time the January 2018 SMH book was prepared. Is the 172 extension for real, and have SR 172 route markers shown up on US 93 Business?

As of Sunday, no and no. (Did both routes on a bicycle, so would have had plenty of time to see any new markers.)

I'm guessing SR 173 will not be signed in the field. From US 93 Business north/west, the new BGS merely says "TO US 95 South - Searchlight". From US 95 north, I believe it says "TO US 93 Business - Boulder City".


There is currently no evidence that SR 172 was extended along US 93 Business, whether in the logs or in the field.

I don't think we're going to get a definitive answer on SR 172 until the next State Maintained Highways book comes out in January or February. I could see NDOT extending the designation, but it's also possible that they might relinquish the old route to Boulder City. Not all US business routes in Nevada are state maintained. For recent precedent, see Carson City post completion of the I-580 Carson City Bypass–old US 395 is now signed as a business route, but most of it has been relinquished Carson City and the rest is planned to be. (Old US 50 is also AASHTO-approved as a business route but not currently signed as such, and has also been reverted to local control.)

Even if SR 172 was extended along US 93 Business, NDOT probably won't sign the state route alongside the business route. See precedent of SR 362 in Hawthorne: cataloged and mileposted as SR 362 but signed as US 95 Truck.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on August 27, 2018, 06:35:51 PM
I drove this stretch over the past week- northbound from Arizona on Sunday of last week and southbound yesterday.  It is signed as I-11 and US 93 concurrently, but only from the end of the 515 to Hoover Dam.  While heading EB on 215 no mention of it on the signs yet, just refers to I-515 and Boulder City.  The Digital overhead signs do say I-11 now open to Kingman AZ though on the SB I-515 (although technically not correct).

It was nice to bypass Boulder City although because of the additional distance it didn't seem to save as much time as I had expected, don't think it took 30 minutes off the drive and I was driving 75 mph most of the way.  Still nice to no longer have to worry about the hour long backups going from AZ to Las Vegas through Boulder City before busy weekends, New Years, etc.

As far as the routing through Las Vegas, I find it interesting if they do go with the eastern loop alignment (which I would support), nearly all of the "first stretch of I-11" would actually not even be included in the final route, as the interstate would likely turn NB right after the state line.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 28, 2018, 10:21:59 AM
MOD NOTE: Several posts about the route of I-11 through Vegas from 8/26/18 to 8/27/18 were moved to the Interstate 11 alignment, through Vegas and points north (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=7881.msg2351895#msg2351895) thread, to keep this thread more focused on the specific Boulder City project. –Roadfro
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 28, 2018, 12:27:20 PM
And just this morning, already the second fatal crash on the new road:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/deadly-i-11-crash-near-boulder-city-blamed-on-speed-impairment/

QuoteTwo people are dead and three others, including a small child, were hospitalized early Tuesday morning after a crash on Interstate 11 south of Las Vegas.

The crash was reported at 2:18 a.m. after a BMW crashed into the back of a sedan that was stopped on the side of the highway, Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Travis Smaka said.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: nexus73 on August 28, 2018, 06:52:34 PM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 28, 2018, 12:27:20 PM
And just this morning, already the second fatal crash on the new road:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/deadly-i-11-crash-near-boulder-city-blamed-on-speed-impairment/

QuoteTwo people are dead and three others, including a small child, were hospitalized early Tuesday morning after a crash on Interstate 11 south of Las Vegas.

The crash was reported at 2:18 a.m. after a BMW crashed into the back of a sedan that was stopped on the side of the highway, Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Travis Smaka said.

Moral of the story: Do not run into stopped cars!

Rick
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: myosh_tino on August 29, 2018, 12:18:23 AM
Quote from: nexus73 on August 28, 2018, 06:52:34 PM
Quote from: Kniwt on August 28, 2018, 12:27:20 PM
And just this morning, already the second fatal crash on the new road:
https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/deadly-i-11-crash-near-boulder-city-blamed-on-speed-impairment/

QuoteTwo people are dead and three others, including a small child, were hospitalized early Tuesday morning after a crash on Interstate 11 south of Las Vegas.

The crash was reported at 2:18 a.m. after a BMW crashed into the back of a sedan that was stopped on the side of the highway, Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Travis Smaka said.

Moral of the story: Do not run into stopped cars!

Rick

:-D

Tell that to inattentive Tesla drivers....

https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/08/25/tesla-crashes-into-san-jose-fire-truck-on-highway-101/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on September 18, 2018, 12:18:19 PM
Here is an article about the crashes on I-11...

https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/sep/16/string-of-crashes-on-new-stretch-of-interstate-11/
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on September 18, 2018, 05:26:12 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on September 18, 2018, 12:18:19 PM
Here is an article about the crashes on I-11...

https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/sep/16/string-of-crashes-on-new-stretch-of-interstate-11/

The last paragraph of the article pretty much says it all -- all Las Vegas-area freeways are equally prone to incidents, some of which involve fatalities; I-11 stands out only because it is shiny and new and in the news on that basis.  As one who used to come here for a week or so every year to exhibit at CES in January, I've seen LV traffic at its worst -- conventioneers with rented cars mixing with the usual weekend recreational traffic, and all that mixed with "normal" traffic intrinsic to an urban area of nearly 2M.  Out-of-towners who really don't know where they're going (but go there anyway!) and who want to see the local points of interest (including Hoover Dam & Lake Mead -- and now that big bad arch bridge next to the dam) pose a problem for a region serving as a recreational destination.  And now that trucks are again using the new I-11 and US 93 beyond it to get to eastward I-40 as well as down to Phoenix, that's going to put a lot of potentially conflicting driver skill sets onto a 4-lane freeway -- a recipe for accidents.  But since the area is essentially one big recreational destination, all local freeways, particularly I-15, the I-11/515 continuum, and the Interstate portion of 215 past the airport will continue to see the lion's share of incidents.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on October 18, 2018, 12:38:14 PM
Looks like NDOT has realized this was not their best signage work:

https://bouldercityreview.com/news/new-signs-on-interstate-expected-to-help-boost-citys-economy/

"The sign on the overpass that says "Railroad Pass Casino Rd ¼ MILE"  will be replaced with one that says "I-11 U.S. 93 U.S. 95 South Kingman."  Additionally, a new ground sign that says "Exit 15A Railroad Pass Casino Rd ¼ MILE"  will be put up."
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on October 18, 2018, 03:59:33 PM
I noticed some signage changes last week driving this from Las Vegas to Phoenix too.  There was the overhead digital signs saying I-11 open and had the travel distances listed to both Kingman and Phoenix.  I also noticed a sign along the route noting that there are no U turns allowed along the freeway.  I'm guessing there must be a lot of confused travelers who miss the exit trying to get to Hoover Dam, etc and are trying to turn around.  I'm guessing this new signage should help.

The one sign I'm surprised hasn't changed is at the end of EB 215 it still just has a sign for 93/95/515 Boulder City.  While i know the route is still technically 515 for a bit south of the 215 interchange I'm surprised there is no reference there to I-11 yet.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on October 18, 2018, 04:57:02 PM
Quote from: kdk on October 18, 2018, 03:59:33 PM
I noticed some signage changes last week driving this from Las Vegas to Phoenix too.  There was the overhead digital signs saying I-11 open and had the travel distances listed to both Kingman and Phoenix.  I also noticed a sign along the route noting that there are no U turns allowed along the freeway.  I'm guessing there must be a lot of confused travelers who miss the exit trying to get to Hoover Dam, etc and are trying to turn around.  I'm guessing this new signage should help.

The one sign I'm surprised hasn't changed is at the end of EB 215 it still just has a sign for 93/95/515 Boulder City.  While i know the route is still technically 515 for a bit south of the 215 interchange I'm surprised there is no reference there to I-11 yet.

It's likely NDOT isn't going to do anything beyond what's in the field right now until the LV routing study is completed next year (basically a CYA situation for them).  Apparently the contract to replace the signage SE of the 215/515 interchange was put on hold pending that outcome.   Yeah, it might be a bit confusing for first-time/one-time area visitors, but for locals and commercial traffic the situation is probably "old hat" by now.     
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on October 19, 2018, 12:11:48 AM
Quote from: kdk on October 18, 2018, 03:59:33 PM
I noticed some signage changes last week driving this from Las Vegas to Phoenix too.  There was the overhead digital signs saying I-11 open and had the travel distances listed to both Kingman and Phoenix.  I also noticed a sign along the route noting that there are no U turns allowed along the freeway.  I'm guessing there must be a lot of confused travelers who miss the exit trying to get to Hoover Dam, etc and are trying to turn around.  I'm guessing this new signage should help.

I understand NDOT started displaying some messages on VMSs a little while ago after they first started hearing that there was confusion. It's really a stop gap measure.

The "No U Turn" sign has nothing to do with confused people turning around or missing Boulder City. It is posted at a maintenance/utility/highway patrol crossover. NDOT's standard practice is to sign these freeway crossovers with a "No U Turn" sign (with an "Authorized Vehicles Only" sign underneath).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on October 19, 2018, 04:56:39 PM

Quote from: kdk on October 18, 2018, 03:59:33 PM

The "No U Turn" sign has nothing to do with confused people turning around or missing Boulder City. It is posted at a maintenance/utility/highway patrol crossover. NDOT's standard practice is to sign these freeway crossovers with a "No U Turn" sign (with an "Authorized Vehicles Only" sign underneath).

There was a new "no u turns" sign posted before the Bus. 93 Boulder City exit though that was new.  I know what you are saying how they have those posted on all of the crossovers, and they do, but I just thought it was odd they would warn everyone about this ahead of time too.  I don't recall seeing anything like that before.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sparker on October 19, 2018, 06:02:34 PM
Quote from: kdk on October 19, 2018, 04:56:39 PM

Quote from: kdk on October 18, 2018, 03:59:33 PM

The "No U Turn" sign has nothing to do with confused people turning around or missing Boulder City. It is posted at a maintenance/utility/highway patrol crossover. NDOT's standard practice is to sign these freeway crossovers with a "No U Turn" sign (with an "Authorized Vehicles Only" sign underneath).

There was a new "no u turns" sign posted before the Bus. 93 Boulder City exit though that was new.  I know what you are saying how they have those posted on all of the crossovers, and they do, but I just thought it was odd they would warn everyone about this ahead of time too.  I don't recall seeing anything like that before.

It might actually be a good thing to post the "no U turn" signs before the median crossovers on this particular section of I-11, seeing as it is doing "double-duty" as both a long-distance server and a localized recreational route to and from the Lake Mead area (and its high bridge is an attraction in itself!).  I've seen unauthorized usage of crossovers all over the Interstate and other freeway networks by folks simply wanting to head in the opposite direction after missing their exit -- or otherwise realizing that they're not heading where they originally intended; on outlying segments with widely spaced interchanges this seems to be a particular problem.  Semi-active discouragement -- as opposed to relying on a general knowledge of the applicable laws -- is probably one of the better ways of dealing with this phenomenon on a facility where this is more likely to occur.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on October 24, 2018, 11:54:26 PM
Another crash on I-11, apparently caused by a drowsy driver. This time, however, NHP was set up in the median recording a PSA when it happened. Let's go to the video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQMDZzrOHXc
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sprjus4 on June 01, 2019, 07:05:14 AM
Bumping this thread to say that there's now March & April 2019 Google Street View along the entire bypass now.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Bobby5280 on June 01, 2019, 07:01:48 PM
That imagery has been up for a few weeks now. The view of Lake Mead from I-11 between mile markers 3 and 4 is pretty spectacular. It would be even better if the water level wasn't so low.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: splashflash on August 04, 2019, 12:29:58 AM
This is an encouraging article about the utility of I-11 for southern Nevada.  Boulder City businesses are relieved that the traffic through the city is there for locally benefitting purposes, diverting the heavy long-distance but largely unpatronizing traffic.

https://www.ttnews.com/articles/one-year-out-nevadas-i-11-facilitates-through-traffic-boosts-local-business
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on August 04, 2019, 12:35:39 AM
Boulder City needs to extend Buchanan BLVD as the four lane divided road to I-11 and add an interchange. Likewise with Utah St.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: skluth on August 04, 2019, 03:44:16 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on August 04, 2019, 12:35:39 AM
Boulder City needs to extend Buchanan BLVD as the four lane divided road to I-11 and add an interchange. Likewise with Utah St.

I can understand an I-11 interchange at an extended Buchanan Blvd. It's mostly built to the highway and it would give a nice four-lane entrance into Boulder City from the south. Utah St should be planned for future expansion to include an interchange with I-11, but I don't think they need to do it soon. It can wait until the demand is there, though the ROW should be reserved.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 04, 2019, 04:20:50 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on August 04, 2019, 12:35:39 AM
Boulder City needs to extend Buchanan BLVD as the four lane divided road to I-11 and add an interchange. Likewise with Utah St.

I thought the same thing when the bypass project was first announced. There is an undercrossing and emergency vehicle access gate there now, so it wouldn't be too hard to make a full interchange. Given the proximity to the Boulder City Airport, it somewhat makes sense. However, given that this southerly end of the developed city seems to be much more residential in makeup, I'm guessing city leaders didn't want such an access to change the traffic and development patterns–an interchange there would likely draw more traffic this direction and potentially more business development. Boulder City likely wants nothing to do with encouraging businesses anywhere other than US 93 Bus and the downtown core.

I wouldn't see a need to extend Utah St for the purpose giving it an interchange with I-11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on August 04, 2019, 07:25:05 PM
^^^ like Skluth, id put the Utah st interchange on the back-burner but have ROW secured. I could see some gas stations and fast food joints open up here at the Buchanan interchange.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 05, 2019, 01:47:58 AM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on August 04, 2019, 12:35:39 AM
Boulder City needs to extend Buchanan BLVD as the four lane divided road to I-11 and add an interchange. Likewise with Utah St.

Boulder City is notoriously anti-growth. If the bypassing doesn't do too much economic damage, I have a hard time seeing city leaders begging NDOT for any sort of investment.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Roadwarriors79 on August 12, 2019, 02:55:31 PM
So the Boulder City Bypass (and the majority of I-11) has existed for a whole year. Has Boulder City become a ghost town yet?   :biggrin:

In all seriousness, what else has changed in the area within the last year?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kdk on August 13, 2019, 03:37:08 PM
Quote from: Roadwarriors79 on August 12, 2019, 02:55:31 PM
So the Boulder City Bypass (and the majority of I-11) has existed for a whole year. Has Boulder City become a ghost town yet?   :biggrin:

In all seriousness, what else has changed in the area within the last year?

Not sure if this is just a "positive spin" article but says its actually helped business.

https://www.ttnews.com/articles/one-year-out-nevadas-i-11-facilitates-through-traffic-boosts-local-business

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 13, 2019, 08:55:30 PM
I was recently in BC for the first time since the bypass opened. Downtown seemed to be doing fine. Traffic was still flowing, but not choking, on old US 93. A few businesses on Nevada Highway were shuttered but the CBD was going strong.

I still think NDOT did a garbage job giving drivers directions to Hoover Dam on southbound I-11. I mean, at least on that distance sign on SB I-11 past US 95 — add Hoover Dam to the destination list (along with Kingman and Phoenix).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 14, 2019, 10:23:02 AM
Quote from: Sub-Urbanite on August 13, 2019, 08:55:30 PM
I still think NDOT did a garbage job giving drivers directions to Hoover Dam on southbound I-11. I mean, at least on that distance sign on SB I-11 past US 95 — add Hoover Dam to the destination list (along with Kingman and Phoenix).

They did add this brown sign (https://goo.gl/maps/Ybjq3AScJ4nGpf8k8) between the Wagonwheel and US 93 BUS exits on southbound I-11. Although I agree putting the mileage to SR 172/Hoover Dam exit on that mileage sign would've been a good idea.


What I think is worse was NDOT replacing the signs at the US 95 south exit to add "Boulder City", at the behest of the city. The new signs have the most hideous layouts I've seen on NDOT signs in a while: southbound (https://goo.gl/maps/w1hyAotdYmnug2SRA) northbound (https://goo.gl/maps/TqEg1e8hNQbxBuwc8). Heading southbound from Vegas, there is a "Boulder City next 3 exits" sign (after Wagonwheel), the Hoover Dam sign (which says "via historic Boulder City next exit"), the two US 93 Business/Boulder City Parkway exit signs, and a supplemental "Boulder City next exit" sign right before the US 95 south exit–adding Boulder City to the US 95 south exit signs as well was very unnecessary, IMHO.

I also think it's egregious that there is no supplemental signage at the US 95 south exit mentioning Laughlin (as there was on the old route).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 14, 2019, 01:37:37 PM
Quote from: roadfro on August 14, 2019, 10:23:02 AM
I also think it's egregious that there is no supplemental signage at the US 95 south exit mentioning Laughlin (as there was on the old route).

Right? I mean, I get omitting Needles, despite its being a control city roughly 20 miles to the north. Maybe just pull it off those signs on Las Vegas Boulevard and call it a day.

But Laughlin? Which, along with Bullhead City, has a population of roughly 65,000? Just weiiiird.

As for that other sign on SB — sure, it says 13 miles, but it doesn't help drivers understand that they can use I-11 to get there... which may, actually, be the point.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Bobby5280 on August 14, 2019, 01:50:36 PM
Quote from: Plutonic PandaBoulder City needs to extend Buchanan BLVD as the four lane divided road to I-11 and add an interchange. Likewise with Utah St.

I don't expect exits on I-11 to be built for either street any time soon, if ever.

Utah Street dead ends at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club. Canyon Pointe Road goes South from there, crossing under I-11 at a pair of new bridges before also ending at another part of the same Rifle and Pistol Club. There's nothing else in that general area.

As for Buchanan Blvd, there is a half-ass, non-Interstate quality, restricted exit for service vehicles only to access the Mead electrical substation next to the highway. One could certainly make a good argument for converting that into a proper limited access freeway exit. I think any efforts to do so would be met with heavy resistance from the residents in the nearby neighborhoods, both out of concerns for traffic and relative security. The people who run the electrical substation likely wouldn't want a bunch of extra traffic right around there. I imagine the people who operate the veterans cemetery would also prefer not to have a bunch of traffic from I-11 rumbling by their location.

I think the potential is there for a lot of development to sprout up a little farther West at the US-95 exit. That location may turn into an important junction over the long term. I just hope NDOT reserved enough ROW around that new exit in case it ever has to be upgraded into something more elaborate.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Sub-Urbanite on August 14, 2019, 02:13:49 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on August 14, 2019, 01:50:36 PM
I think the potential is there for a lot of development to sprout up a little farther West at the US-95 exit. That location may turn into an important junction over the long term. I just hope NDOT reserved enough ROW around that new exit in case it ever has to be upgraded into something more elaborate.

There really is no development potential there — first off, the land has a lot of naturally occurring asbestos, so environmental mitigation costs would be super-high. Even without that, Boulder City is anti sprawl. I could maybe see them approving a gas station near that interchange? But I doubt they'd even go for a truck stop, much less full-scale development.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Kniwt on August 16, 2019, 08:44:17 AM
Meanwhile, $17.5 million in improvements to Business 93 (Boulder City Parkway) begin next Monday.
https://news3lv.com/news/local/boulder-city-parkway-about-to-get-a-175-million-facelift

Quote"The project starts at Veterans Memorial Drive, and continues all the way to Buchanan Blvd.," City Engineer Jim Keane said.

The $17.5 million, Boulder City Parkway Complete Street Project, will be completed in nearly 10 phases, according to Keane.

When it's finished, the 1.5 mile stretch of road will have new and landscaped medians, new sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and new pedestrian crossings.

Project info: https://www.facebook.com/MeadowValleyBoulderCityParkway

(https://i.imgur.com/vfzwqAQ.png)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: splashflash on June 20, 2023, 07:24:43 PM
https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/new-truck-stop-latest-addition-to-interstate-11-highway-expansion-2797208/

New truck stop latest addition to Interstate 11 highway expansion
Vehicles move along the southbound on-ramp for Interstate 11 at College Drive in Henderson

Railroad Pass truck stop is getting a massive overhaul, adding a second truck stop that can accommodate more than 100 trucks along Interstate 11.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on June 21, 2023, 04:03:40 AM
I don't get it. The article says it's on the west side of I-11, and it's 75% complete. I don't see anything in the GE imagery from last month that looks like a truck stop under construction anywhere along I-11.

The article also says, "In February another small part of I-11 – between the U.S. Highway 95 interchange and Railroad Pass Casino in Henderson – opened". What the heck does that mean?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Joseph R P on June 21, 2023, 09:39:17 AM
Quote from: pderocco on June 21, 2023, 04:03:40 AM
I don't get it. The article says it's on the west side of I-11, and it's 75% complete. I don't see anything in the GE imagery from last month that looks like a truck stop under construction anywhere along I-11.

The article also says, "In February another small part of I-11 – between the U.S. Highway 95 interchange and Railroad Pass Casino in Henderson – opened". What the heck does that mean?

I think they're talking about the recently-expanded truck rest area at Railroad Pass Casino. The part that was expanded specifically is the lot west of Railroad Pass Casino Road, though I'm not sure how recently that was completed, but it looks like it's been completed since early 2021. I'm also not sure what the part about the new highway segment opening is all about, and can't really look into it since I don't have a LVRJ subscription. It almost feels like they published this article a couple years too late somehow.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 02:31:29 PM
Quote the new freeway would also provide a much-needed direct link between Las Vegas and Phoenix – the only two cities in the U.S. with populations of more than 1 million people that are not linked by an interstate.
I feel like this is entirely not true either... Something that comes to mind immediately is Hampton Roads and Raleigh-Durham. They are both metropolitan areas of over 2 million each not linked via an interstate highway. I'm sure there's at least one more city pair in the country that qualifies here.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kphoger on June 21, 2023, 02:38:41 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 02:31:29 PM

Quote
the new freeway would also provide a much-needed direct link between Las Vegas and Phoenix – the only two cities in the U.S. with populations of more than 1 million people that are not linked by an interstate.

I feel like this is entirely not true either... Something that comes to mind immediately is Hampton Roads and Raleigh-Durham. They are both metropolitan areas of over 2 million each not linked via an interstate highway. I'm sure there's at least one more city pair in the country that qualifies here.

I was about to say you shifted from "city" to "metropolitan area".  But then I realized that the population of Las Vegas itself is less than a million.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on June 21, 2023, 02:54:15 PM
Only looking at city populations is really ridiculous. By that measure Oklahoma City is bigger than Atlanta.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 06:43:07 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.

Considering Arizona hasn't asked for single mile of I-11 to be officially designated with AASHTO or the FHWA I'll believe it when I see it.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Anthony_JK on June 21, 2023, 06:55:46 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.

If that is the case, maybe they should just route it down I-10 to an upgraded AZ 85 to end at I-8 in Gila Bend and call it a wrap.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on June 21, 2023, 06:58:19 PM
I would have liked there to have been an End Interstate 11 sign posted somewhere along the Mike O'Callaghan—Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. However, there does not appear to be an End Interstate 11 sign posted at either terminus.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 07:02:10 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 21, 2023, 06:58:19 PM
I would have liked there to have been an End Interstate 11 sign posted somewhere along the Mike O'Callaghan—Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. However, there does not appear to be an End Interstate 11 sign posted at either terminus.

There definitely isn't one, I was looking just a couple weeks ago.  There is the Future I-11 sign on US 93 near the Kingman Wash Road exit.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kernals12 on June 21, 2023, 10:23:02 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 06:43:07 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.

Considering Arizona hasn't asked for single mile of I-11 to be officially designated with AASHTO or the FHWA I'll believe it when I see it.

https://azdot.gov/projects/northwest-district-projects/i-40us-93-west-kingman-traffic-interchange

Arizona is going to be building a full system interchange where US 93 meets I-40 in Kingman, the first step in converting the highway to an Interstate.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Henry on June 21, 2023, 10:32:15 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 02:31:29 PM
Quote the new freeway would also provide a much-needed direct link between Las Vegas and Phoenix – the only two cities in the U.S. with populations of more than 1 million people that are not linked by an interstate.
I feel like this is entirely not true either... Something that comes to mind immediately is Hampton Roads and Raleigh-Durham. They are both metropolitan areas of over 2 million each not linked via an interstate highway. I'm sure there's at least one more city pair in the country that qualifies here.
At least I-87 is going to connect those two areas eventually. No such plans exist for Denver and Dallas-Ft. Worth, however; good luck getting a direct link.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: KeithE4Phx on June 21, 2023, 11:15:11 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 06:43:07 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.
Considering Arizona hasn't asked for single mile of I-11 to be officially designated with AASHTO or the FHWA I'll believe it when I see it.

The traffic on the current US 93 does not justify an Interstate highway south of I-40, complete with full interchanges at the many ranch turnoffs as well as at AZ 89, 71, and 97.  It does justify a 4-lane highway for its entire length between I-40 and Wickenburg, extended south to I-10 (signed as 93, though).

I'm going to Laughlin next week.  We'll see how the traffic is.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 11:17:54 PM
Quote from: KeithE4Phx on June 21, 2023, 11:15:11 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 06:43:07 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.
Considering Arizona hasn't asked for single mile of I-11 to be officially designated with AASHTO or the FHWA I'll believe it when I see it.

The traffic on the current US 93 does not justify an Interstate highway south of I-40, complete with full interchanges at the many ranch turnoffs as well as at AZ 89, 71, and 97.  It does justify a 4-lane highway for its entire length between I-40 and Wickenburg, extended south to I-10 (signed as 93, though).

I'm going to Laughlin next week.  We'll see how the traffic is.

And here I was hoping that Nothing would get a full on frontage road...   :rolleyes:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: KeithE4Phx on June 22, 2023, 12:14:39 AM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 11:17:54 PM
Quote from: KeithE4Phx on June 21, 2023, 11:15:11 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 06:43:07 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 21, 2023, 06:29:47 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 03:41:07 PM
The way things are going I-11 is being planned to bypass the Phoenix Metro area completely by way of undeveloped Buckeye.
Either way, it will still provide a non-stop interstate connection via I-10.
Considering Arizona hasn't asked for single mile of I-11 to be officially designated with AASHTO or the FHWA I'll believe it when I see it.

The traffic on the current US 93 does not justify an Interstate highway south of I-40, complete with full interchanges at the many ranch turnoffs as well as at AZ 89, 71, and 97.  It does justify a 4-lane highway for its entire length between I-40 and Wickenburg, extended south to I-10 (signed as 93, though).

I'm going to Laughlin next week.  We'll see how the traffic is.

And here I was hoping that Nothing would get a full on frontage road...   :rolleyes:

:sombrero: :D :) :bigass:
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 22, 2023, 10:15:22 AM
Quote from: Joseph R P on June 21, 2023, 09:39:17 AM
Quote from: pderocco on June 21, 2023, 04:03:40 AM
I don't get it. The article says it's on the west side of I-11, and it's 75% complete. I don't see anything in the GE imagery from last month that looks like a truck stop under construction anywhere along I-11.

The article also says, "In February another small part of I-11 – between the U.S. Highway 95 interchange and Railroad Pass Casino in Henderson – opened". What the heck does that mean?

I think they're talking about the recently-expanded truck rest area at Railroad Pass Casino. The part that was expanded specifically is the lot west of Railroad Pass Casino Road, though I'm not sure how recently that was completed, but it looks like it's been completed since early 2021. I'm also not sure what the part about the new highway segment opening is all about, and can't really look into it since I don't have a LVRJ subscription. It almost feels like they published this article a couple years too late somehow.

The way I'm reading the article, it seems like this is a completely separate truck stop on the other side of the freeway, perhaps at the intersection of Railroad Pass Casino Road and Dawson Road (the semi-frontage road on the west side of I-11). The most recent Google Street View is April 2022, and doesn't reveal much activity...but a project like this could have started last summer and be 75% complete by now.

The article provides no other information about I-11 other than that one sentence. I have no idea what it is referring to, and seems to be a misleading statement since, to my knowledge, the actual I-11 and all other related construction work in that project was completed a few years ago.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Joseph R P on June 22, 2023, 04:10:08 PM
Quote from: roadfro on June 22, 2023, 10:15:22 AM
Quote from: Joseph R P on June 21, 2023, 09:39:17 AM
Quote from: pderocco on June 21, 2023, 04:03:40 AM
I don't get it. The article says it's on the west side of I-11, and it's 75% complete. I don't see anything in the GE imagery from last month that looks like a truck stop under construction anywhere along I-11.

The article also says, "In February another small part of I-11 – between the U.S. Highway 95 interchange and Railroad Pass Casino in Henderson – opened". What the heck does that mean?

I think they're talking about the recently-expanded truck rest area at Railroad Pass Casino. The part that was expanded specifically is the lot west of Railroad Pass Casino Road, though I'm not sure how recently that was completed, but it looks like it's been completed since early 2021. I'm also not sure what the part about the new highway segment opening is all about, and can't really look into it since I don't have a LVRJ subscription. It almost feels like they published this article a couple years too late somehow.

The way I'm reading the article, it seems like this is a completely separate truck stop on the other side of the freeway, perhaps at the intersection of Railroad Pass Casino Road and Dawson Road (the semi-frontage road on the west side of I-11). The most recent Google Street View is April 2022, and doesn't reveal much activity...but a project like this could have started last summer and be 75% complete by now.

The article provides no other information about I-11 other than that one sentence. I have no idea what it is referring to, and seems to be a misleading statement since, to my knowledge, the actual I-11 and all other related construction work in that project was completed a few years ago.

You look to be correct about the truck stop being just across I 11 at the frontage road. Looking at the Clark County OpenWeb aerial imagery from February 16, 2023, that is most definitely an under-construction truck stop: https://maps.clarkcountynv.gov/openweb/?@853416,26689964,7
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on June 23, 2023, 03:15:48 AM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on June 21, 2023, 11:17:54 PM
And here I was hoping that Nothing would get a full on frontage road...   :rolleyes:

If they end up building something there, will they have to change its name?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: pderocco on June 23, 2023, 03:24:03 AM
Quote from: Joseph R P on June 22, 2023, 04:10:08 PM
You look to be correct about the truck stop being just across I 11 at the frontage road. Looking at the Clark County OpenWeb aerial imagery from February 16, 2023, that is most definitely an under-construction truck stop: https://maps.clarkcountynv.gov/openweb/?@853416,26689964,7

As I said, Google Earth has imagery from one month ago, and it doesn't look much different from that Feb 16 imagery. I suppose that could be the beginning of a new truck stop--it would be a logical place for it--but its haphazard looking layout makes it look more like the other junk on the west side of the highway. But if it's a truck stop, I don't know by what metric they could say that it's 75% complete.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kernals12 on June 25, 2023, 01:00:10 AM
So what was the reason for bypassing Boulder City rather than upgrading US 93?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Scott5114 on June 25, 2023, 01:57:24 AM
Quote from: kernals12 on June 25, 2023, 01:00:10 AM
So what was the reason for bypassing Boulder City rather than upgrading US 93?

Boulder City was in the way.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on June 25, 2023, 02:13:51 PM
Upgrading existing Business 93 would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses. I'm sure the locals would be very loud in stating their opposition to the destruction an inner-city US 93 upgrade would have required. Would you want your home and neighborhood plowed down for a new freeway to be constructed (assuming you live in an urban or suburban area)?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: kernals12 on June 25, 2023, 02:19:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 25, 2023, 02:13:51 PM
Upgrading existing Business 93 would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses. I'm sure the locals would be very loud in stating their opposition to the destruction an inner-city US 93 upgrade would have required. Would you want your home and neighborhood plowed down for a new freeway to be constructed (assuming you live in an urban or suburban area)?

I read there was a lot of panic that the bypass would turn Boulder City into a ghost town a la Radiator Springs.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Plutonic Panda on June 25, 2023, 02:25:50 PM
Quote from: kernals12 on June 25, 2023, 02:19:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 25, 2023, 02:13:51 PM
Upgrading existing Business 93 would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses. I'm sure the locals would be very loud in stating their opposition to the destruction an inner-city US 93 upgrade would have required. Would you want your home and neighborhood plowed down for a new freeway to be constructed (assuming you live in an urban or suburban area)?

I read there was a lot of panic that the bypass would turn Boulder City into a ghost town a la Radiator Springs.
I never heard that. I always heard that the town was excited for the possibilities of a revamp by making the current road more pedestrian friendly and potential for new development out along the future(current) road. I frequent Boulder City and they have a nice strip downtown that is underutilized. I feel like it'll take off one day. Some beautiful neighborhoods too with amazing views of Mead.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: vdeane on June 25, 2023, 04:53:59 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 25, 2023, 02:13:51 PM
Upgrading existing Business 93 would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses. I'm sure the locals would be very loud in stating their opposition to the destruction an inner-city US 93 upgrade would have required. Would you want your home and neighborhood plowed down for a new freeway to be constructed (assuming you live in an urban or suburban area)?
Is there a reason why they made the old route US 93 Business instead of retaining US 93 there and making the bypass I-11 alone?
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: sprjus4 on June 25, 2023, 05:50:45 PM
^ My guess is that US-93 was planned as a freeway bypass before the I-11 designation came up, but I'm not sure.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Molandfreak on June 25, 2023, 06:04:03 PM
That was probably just a result of maintaining a consistent policy--US 395 was also moved to I-580, and an alternate route was created on the surface roads.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 25, 2023, 06:28:48 PM
Quote from: Scott5114 on June 25, 2023, 01:57:24 AM
Quote from: kernals12 on June 25, 2023, 01:00:10 AM
So what was the reason for bypassing Boulder City rather than upgrading US 93?

Boulder City was in the way.

Literally and figuratively...

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 25, 2023, 02:25:50 PM
Quote from: kernals12 on June 25, 2023, 02:19:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 25, 2023, 02:13:51 PM
Upgrading existing Business 93 would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses. I'm sure the locals would be very loud in stating their opposition to the destruction an inner-city US 93 upgrade would have required. Would you want your home and neighborhood plowed down for a new freeway to be constructed (assuming you live in an urban or suburban area)?

I read there was a lot of panic that the bypass would turn Boulder City into a ghost town a la Radiator Springs.
I never heard that. I always heard that the town was excited for the possibilities of a revamp by making the current road more pedestrian friendly and potential for new development out along the future(current) road. I frequent Boulder City and they have a nice strip downtown that is underutilized. I feel like it'll take off one day. Some beautiful neighborhoods too with amazing views of Mead.

IIRC, there were about three build options identified when this was being studied: a southern alignment (which was what was constructed), upgrading the existing alignment to freeway, and a northern alignment built in the foothills just north of the city. Depending on how it would've ultimately been built, upgrading the existing alignment wouldn't necessarily have resulted in too much ROW acquisition...

BC residents were very vehemently opposed to the existing alignment and northern alignment, especially those people who had bought newer homes along the northeast side of the city that would have had the most negative impacts from nearby sound and traffic. Meanwhile, BC business owners were quite concerned about the the southern bypass potentially causing reduced business because more traffic would be bypassing the town and leaned towards having a through-town alignment, IIRC. Ultimately the residents won out.

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 25, 2023, 06:37:58 PM
Quote from: vdeane on June 25, 2023, 04:53:59 PM
Is there a reason why they made the old route US 93 Business instead of retaining US 93 there and making the bypass I-11 alone?

NDOT's SOP has almost always been to move the US Highway mainline to a new freeway bypass and go request a business route designation for the old highway.

Quote from: sprjus4 on June 25, 2023, 05:50:45 PM
^ My guess is that US-93 was planned as a freeway bypass before the I-11 designation came up, but I'm not sure.

The Boulder City Bypass was in planning and design stages probably 10-15 years before the concept of I-11.

Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: KeithE4Phx on June 25, 2023, 08:04:39 PM
Quote from: vdeane on June 25, 2023, 04:53:59 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 25, 2023, 02:13:51 PM
Upgrading existing Business 93 would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses. I'm sure the locals would be very loud in stating their opposition to the destruction an inner-city US 93 upgrade would have required. Would you want your home and neighborhood plowed down for a new freeway to be constructed (assuming you live in an urban or suburban area)?
Is there a reason why they made the old route US 93 Business instead of retaining US 93 there and making the bypass I-11 alone?
Once I-11 is built into Arizona (if that ever happens), US 93 will go away southeast of Vegas.  If not in this life, then in the next.  :)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: vdeane on June 25, 2023, 09:19:15 PM
Quote from: Molandfreak on June 25, 2023, 06:04:03 PM
That was probably just a result of maintaining a consistent policy--US 395 was also moved to I-580, and an alternate route was created on the surface roads.
Quote from: roadfro on June 25, 2023, 06:37:58 PM
Quote from: vdeane on June 25, 2023, 04:53:59 PM
Is there a reason why they made the old route US 93 Business instead of retaining US 93 there and making the bypass I-11 alone?

NDOT's SOP has almost always been to move the US Highway mainline to a new freeway bypass and go request a business route designation for the old highway.

Quote from: sprjus4 on June 25, 2023, 05:50:45 PM
^ My guess is that US-93 was planned as a freeway bypass before the I-11 designation came up, but I'm not sure.

The Boulder City Bypass was in planning and design stages probably 10-15 years before the concept of I-11.


Yeah, I'm not a fan of how US 395 handles it either.  I can get it to some extent around Reno since I-580 ends and it needs to get over to the freeway somehow, but that doesn't mean it needs to do this for the whole route.  I prefer to minimize overlaps and I hate the useless ones.  If it were up to me I'd either:
1. Have kept US 395 on the old route to current exit 31 and overlap to I-80.
2. Have kept US 395 on the old route the whole way and designate the freeway north of I-80 as NV 580.
3. Have kept US 395 on the old route and extend I-580 north to where the freeway rejoins US 395.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: cl94 on June 26, 2023, 03:33:54 PM
The thing with 580 is that, prior to 2012, it was unsigned. It has existed since the 70s, but they did not see a point in signing it until it was a continuous freeway south of Reno. The signed overlap is a development from the past decade.

Nevada is a state that, with a very notable exception or two, will not designate a non-business route along a road they do not maintain. The intent with 395 through Reno and Carson was always to give the surface alignment back to the city and let them do as they wish. For this reason alone, they wouldn't keep 395 on the surface. They explicitly want to route through traffic onto the bypasses to provide more bike/ped/parking space in downtown areas.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on June 27, 2023, 12:12:56 AM
Quote from: cl94 on June 26, 2023, 03:33:54 PM
The thing with 580 is that, prior to 2012, it was unsigned. It has existed since the 70s, but they did not see a point in signing it until it was a continuous freeway south of Reno. The signed overlap is a development from the past decade.

Nevada is a state that, with a very notable exception or two, will not designate a non-business route along a road they do not maintain. The intent with 395 through Reno and Carson was always to give the surface alignment back to the city and let them do as they wish. For this reason alone, they wouldn't keep 395 on the surface. They explicitly want to route through traffic onto the bypasses to provide more bike/ped/parking space in downtown areas.

Salient example of the last part of this: Carson City had been chomping at the bit to do a revamp along US 395/Carson Street in their downtown core and near the capital complex to implement a road diet and make it more walkable, but NDOT was not on board with this given the US highway status on the street through town. But Carson City moved ahead with their plans almost as soon as NDOT finished the last leg of the I-580/Carson City Bypass, established the US 395 Business route, and completed the jurisdictional transfer Carson Street to the city.

Bringing this back to the thread topic... I'm not sure if there is a plan for NDOT to relinquish old US 93 through Boulder City. This is one instance where the business route remains state-maintained with prominent signage (and, breaking from previous precedent, cataloging it as "US 93B" instead of as a state route with or without national business route signage). I don't get the sense, and haven't read any articles suggesting, that Boulder City wants to do any specific revitalization or has any specific plans for the business route...much of their road diet-like downtown revitalization/walkability efforts were put into Nevada Way (the old-old alignment) years before I-11 (since the "truck" route provided an effective bypass years ago).
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: cl94 on June 27, 2023, 12:38:43 AM
Good question on Boulder City. As you said, 93B...is already the bypass of downtown. There isn't much need for the city to do anything with it because it's just a suburban arterial.

With both Reno and Carson, 395 ran through the middle of downtown. The cities wanted 395 so they could diet it and had wanted it for some time. And in both cases, they took it over and dieted as soon as money allowed. There had been plans to diet Virginia Street through Reno since the late 90s, if not earlier. I'd argue Carson did a nice job with their diet; downtown is pretty walkable, everyone takes the bypass around, and it's faster to drive through the city. Win for everyone.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: silverback1065 on June 27, 2023, 04:16:57 PM
Slightly off topic, but will I-215 be signed along the entire loop now? It looks like all the exits are complete now.  :hmmm: I am assuming 11 won't use 215, but 95 and 515.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on June 27, 2023, 04:38:32 PM
Yes, Interstate 11 will follow existing Interstate 515 (and US 95 all the way to NV 157). CC-215 likely won't become Interstate 215 until the Centernnial Bowl is finished being reconstructed as a system interchange in 2024: https://www.dot.nv.gov/Home/Components/News/News/6652/395.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: PColumbus73 on August 02, 2023, 10:17:14 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 27, 2023, 04:38:32 PM
Yes, Interstate 11 will follow existing Interstate 515 (and US 95 all the way to NV 157). CC-215 likely won't become Interstate 215 until the Centernnial Bowl is finished being reconstructed as a system interchange in 2024: https://www.dot.nv.gov/Home/Components/News/News/6652/395.

The 2024 Rand McNally map has I-11 shown running through Las Vegas along I-515 and US 95
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on August 03, 2023, 12:19:58 PM
Only to Exit 90A. The atlas also shows 11 and 515 co-designated together from 215 to 15. I think Rand McNally jumped the gun.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 03, 2023, 01:02:57 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on August 03, 2023, 12:19:58 PM
Only to Exit 90A. The atlas also shows 11 and 515 co-designated together from 215 to 15. I think Rand McNally jumped the gun.

They totally did. NDOT hasn't submitted any renumbering plans to AASHTO (to my knowledge), nor announced any plans to make the switch.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: Max Rockatansky on August 03, 2023, 02:07:22 PM
There isn't anything in the AASHTO database yet for I-11 being extended to NV 157.  The most recent applications have appeared in the database for Boulder City.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on August 05, 2023, 12:58:15 PM
I don't know if anyone has noted this, but at the Boulder City Pkwy./Buchannan Blvd./Nevada Way intersection, there are signage errors. From westbound, there are still mainline US 93 signs: https://www.google.com/maps/@35.9745678,-114.8453862,3a,75y,251.7h,75.6t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sXjxF4W5qUGchdegKJAGe6g!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?entry=ttu. North of the intersection, there is a Truck 93 sign: https://www.google.com/maps/@35.9748085,-114.8463727,3a,75y,356.36h,82.99t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sBU5ITvqCxAHyRz3J8OmJuQ!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?entry=ttu. And from southbound there is a mainline US 93 sign: https://www.google.com/maps/@35.9760453,-114.8462395,3a,75y,184.69h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sbXqR-yqQ2t4zOtHDopdK2A!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?entry=ttu. Only eastbound has correct Business 93 signage: https://www.google.com/maps/@35.97352,-114.8470058,3a,75y,59.93h,95.67t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sI2hzkYJo-elxS6ixgkoioQ!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?entry=ttu. As for the approach from Buchannan Blvd., there is no signage for US/Business/Truck 93 whatsoever.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: The Ghostbuster on August 07, 2023, 12:36:50 PM
If the Business 93 designation is eventually decommissioned (due to 93 being truncated, or some other reason), would it be replaced by a Business 11 designation, or would NV 172 be extended westward? Given the history of highway redesignations in the Boulder City/Las Vegas area, I would expect the latter to happen.
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 08, 2023, 12:46:56 PM
MOD NOTE: An extended off-topic discussion developed in early August 2023, which came from the question above pertaining to why NDOT moved US 93 off the old route in Boulder City onto I-11 and developed into conversation about how US routes are handled with respect to overlapping Interstates and the US route grid in the western versus eastern US. Given over a page of discussion and the potential for broader discussion outside Pacific Southwest, these posts were split and moved to General Highway Talk in the thread linked below. –Roadfro

Differences in how US routes are handled between western and eastern US (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=33627.0)
Title: Re: I-11/US 93 - Boulder City Bypass
Post by: roadfro on August 08, 2023, 12:48:52 PM
Since I can't split posts, copied a salient reply from a post that was moved to the other thread:

Quote from: cl94 on August 07, 2023, 11:46:40 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on August 07, 2023, 12:36:50 PM
If the Business 93 designation is eventually decommissioned (due to 93 being truncated, or some other reason), would it be replaced by a Business 11 designation, or would NV 172 be extended westward? Given the history of highway redesignations in the Boulder City/Las Vegas area, I would expect the latter to happen.

It depends. Moreso on who maintains it than anything else. If 93 disappears from the area and NDOT maintains control, I'd assume it becomes an SR, potentially with BR 11 overlain on it. BR 11 is the most likely signed designation, if any exists, if it is downloaded to the county/city.

That being said, BR 93 is an oddity in Nevada because that is the only state-maintained business route without an underlying SR or FR. There is nothing preventing NDOT from designating it as IR 11B and calling it a day. It just has never been done before, and there isn't even precedent for a suffixed Interstate in Nevada. This is a slight difference from US 93B, which has some precedent in the form of US 93A, US 95A, US 395A, and the defunct US 40As.