LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — For the first time since opening 32 years ago, the Airport Connector tunnel is undergoing a complete repaving project to address years of driver complaints about crumbling asphalt, potholes, and water leaks.
The Clark County Department of Aviation kicked off the project this week to replace the original 1994 pavement inside the heavily traveled tunnels.
“In order to repave, we have to first remove all of the old asphalt, which takes some time. That’s why we have the traffic mitigation in place,” said Amanda Mazzagatti, public relations manager for the Department of Aviation. “Once the old asphalt is removed, then we can put a new layer on.”
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Traffic Impact and Lane Closures
The repaving work will bring continuous traffic disruptions for the next five months.
One lane will be closed in each direction 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the entrance to both tunnels. During overnight hours, traffic inside the tunnels will be restricted further to a single lane.
Additionally, the speed limit through the construction zone has been reduced to 25 mph.
“Obviously, having a smooth and clear roadway helps ensure the safety of that roadway, but we do want to remind viewers that safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Mazzagatti said. “We always encourage drivers to mind the speed limit, stay off your phones, stay alert, and really do your part during your commute.”
Multiple Construction Projects Coordinated
The tunnel repaving project is one of three active construction zones currently affecting the Airport Connector.
On the northbound side, Clark County Public Works is widening the roadway between the 215 Beltway and Sunset Road. On the southbound side, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) is executing its own pavement improvement project.
Aviation officials noted that coordinating these three projects simultaneously is intended to minimize long-term disruptions, comparing the strategy to “ripping off a Band-Aid.”
“We do work very closely with our partners at Public Works and NDOT,” Mazzagatti said. “We work in tandem with them to ensure that these projects are actually being done at the same time, so that drivers are only feeling the impact of this construction one time.”
Mazzagatti added that while construction causes temporary headaches, the long-term results are necessary.
“Cones mean progress,” she said. “I understand the pain point, but at the end of the day, it’s going to be a great benefit.”
The entire Airport Connector repaving project is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year.
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