Temporary Closure of Whiskey Row for Installation of Traffic Safety Improvements
To enhance safety for downtown events, the City of Prescott will be installing sleeve assemblies in the street pavement near the crosswalks at both ends of South Montezuma Street on Whiskey Row this week. The sleeves will allow the placement of removable steel traffic bollards—vertical steel posts—providing a physical barrier to the passage of motor vehicles during special events with the street is closed.
To accomplish the work, Montezuma Street between Goodwin and Gurley will be closed to all traffic and parking beginning Sunday April 19th at 11:00 a.m. and continuing until Monday April 20th at 8:00 p.m., allowing City crews to install the traffic bollard sleeves.
Completion of the project will enable the bollards to be used during the upcoming Whiskey Off-Road mountain bike race beginning early Friday, April 24th through Sunday, April 26th, and future events throughout the year.
"A full street closure is being implemented to expedite the construction process and minimize the overall impact on local businesses and parking," said Ian Mattingly, City of Prescott Traffic Engineer. "The construction will consist of the placement of 19 underground concrete foundations and flush mounted sleeve systems which accept removable steel traffic bollards during times of street closure for special events on Montezuma. This project will result in a system that enhances public safety during special events."
According to Prescott Mayor Pro Tem Chris Kuknyo, who initiated the bollard project, "Anytime we can enhance the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians by offering protection from vehicular traffic, it's a good thing."
For specific questions regarding the project, please call the Public Works Department at 777-1130 or visit the traffic restriction webpage