BULLHEAD CITY — The City of Bullhead City is pleased to announce the activation of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Merrill Ave and Highway 95, effective today, May 6, 2025. This important upgrade is part of the City’s continued efforts to enhance road safety, traffic flow, and overall driving efficiency in the area.
The new traffic signal at Merrill Ave and Highway 95 is a key step in addressing the growing traffic demands in this busy intersection. Many accidents occurred over the years with traffic leaving Merrill making a southbound turn. Now, all traffic will safely travel through the signalized intersection. This has been a concern for the City for almost a decade.
The signal, which became fully operational this morning, is designed to optimize traffic management and reduce congestion for both residents and travelers. While the signal will be fully functional, the City’s traffic engineers will be fine-tuning the timing of the lights over the next few weeks to ensure optimal performance. The City appreciates the patience and cooperation of the public during this transition and encourages drivers to be cautious and mindful while navigating the area during this adjustment period.
“This traffic signal represents a major milestone in our commitment to improving road safety and traffic flow along Highway 95,” said Toby Cotter, Bullhead City Manager. “Earlier this month, the City also newly opened right turn lanes on Highway 95 at Central Ave, Rising Sun Rd, and Sterling, which are already helping to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety for drivers turning onto adjacent streets. Mayor D’Amico participated in a ceremonial opening of the lanes, emphasizing the immediate benefits that residents will experience. Additionally, we have more right-turn lanes coming, including one in front of Mohave High School, this right-hand turn lane at Thunderstruck Dr and Highway 95 is currently under construction. The design for another lane near Safeway is nearing completion, with consensus from property owners to proceed. Once the Thunderstruck Dr project is completed, we will begin construction on another lane near Safeway in the River District. All of these improvements are part of our ongoing efforts to make Bullhead City a safer and more efficient place to live and travel.”
The project was completed by Perco Rock Company at a total cost of $3.3 million, coming in under budget. In addition to installing the new traffic signal, the project involved relocating the intersection northward, adding new grading, paving, curb and gutter work, and implementing critical underground water and sewer improvements. These infrastructure enhancements will support both current traffic needs and future development in the area.
“We are very proud of the technical achievements in this project,” said Angie Johnson, Public Works Director. “The work completed by the Perco Rock Company was both complex and vital to the city’s infrastructure. We had to carefully relocate the intersection, install the new signal, and carry out extensive grading and paving work. Not only did we come in under the original budget of $3.3 million, but we were able to deliver the project ahead of schedule. The improvements to the road and utility systems are integral to preparing the area for future growth.”
As part of this project, the section of road that previously led to the former intersection has been renamed Brady Blvd in honor of Former Mayor Tom Brady, a long-time public servant and dedicated community leader. Merrill Avenue was originally named after Scott Merrill’s father, the original developer of the area, and the renaming of the adjacent section honors both the history and continued progress of the city.
Looking to the future, this upgrade is a vital part of the larger Anthem Travel Center development project, which will bring mixed-use development to the area, including a gas station, hotels, restaurants, and riverside boardwalk, with future plans for additional housing, and a convenience store. The development will transform the area into a vibrant, multi-purpose space, supporting both community growth and economic development.
The City of Bullhead City thanks the public for their continued support and cooperation as we work to create a safer, more efficient road system for all. For updates on this project and others in the community, please visit the City’s website, contact the Public Information Officer or follow us on social media.
