LAKE MEAD — Lake Mead National Recreation Area has launched a significant road improvement project on Willow Beach Road, with construction anticipated to conclude by mid-March 2026. The $2 million project will address deteriorating road conditions and enhance safe, reliable access to one of the park’s most scenic and heavily visited destinations.
The existing asphalt roadbed is in poor condition, with cracks, potholes, and sections damaged by flooding. Repaving Willow Beach Road will improve driving conditions and provide a smoother, more durable roadway for visitors traveling to Willow Beach, the marina, and the fish hatchery.
“This project reflects our commitment to reinvesting entrance fees back into the visitor experience,” said Superintendent Mike Gauthier. “Improving Willow Beach Road will make travel safer and more comfortable while supporting continued access to this remarkable area of the park.”
Project Details
The project will repave 3.7 miles of roadway, extending from the Willow Beach entrance station to the nonmotorized boat launch area. The paved road width will remain unchanged and will continue to include gravel shoulders.
Construction will involve grinding the existing pavement and reusing it as one of two base layers. A gravel base will then be topped with three inches of new asphalt, improving durability while making efficient use of existing materials.
Funding for the project comes entirely from entrance fees collected at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. CORE Contracting Group was selected to complete the work.
Visitor Access and Traffic Impacts
* Willow Beach, the marina, and the fish hatchery will remain open 24 hours per day throughout the project.
* Construction will occur Mondays through Thursdays, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
* During certain phases, traffic will be reduced to one lane with a flagger, and delays of up to 15 minutes are possible.
* No road work will occur Fridays through Sundays, and both uphill and downhill lanes will be fully open on those days.
* Following asphalt removal and prior to final paving, the roadway will be hardpacked gravel, suitable for passenger vehicles and trucks pulling trailers.
Park staff appreciate the public’s patience during construction and encourage visitors to plan ahead, allow extra travel time on weekdays, and drive cautiously through work zones.
