Construction alert and traffic signal changes on Tangerine Road

Published on October 03, 2025

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Oct. 3, 2025) – The Town of Oro Valley will begin installing new flashing yellow arrow signals at two intersections along Tangerine Rd. at La Cañada Dr. and Rancho Vistoso Blvd./1st Ave. Work will take place Oct. 6–10, 2025 (dates subject to weather).

This safety project is designed to reduce left-turn traffic accidents. Instead of a solid green light, drivers making left turns will see a flashing yellow arrow, signaling they may turn after yielding to oncoming traffic.

This project is 100 percent federally funded. The Town was awarded $569,455 by the Federal Highway Administration as part of the Highway Safety Improvement Program in 2023 to complete this project.

“Public safety is our Town’s top priority, and roadway safety is a critical part of that,” said Town of Oro Valley Public Works Director Paul Keesler. “This federal funding allows us to deliver proven safety improvements at no cost to the Town, helping drivers make safer decisions at two busy intersections.”

All construction will occur at night, between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Oct. 6–7: La Cañada Dr. and Tangerine Rd.
Oct. 8–9: Rancho Vistoso Blvd./1st Ave. and Tangerine Rd.
Oct. 10: Wrap-up work

Dates and plans are subject to weather.

Traffic signals will operate normally during the daytime.

Traffic control during construction:

Lane restrictions: Left-turn and right-turn lanes may be closed; turns permitted as directed by police officers.
Speed limit: Reduced to 25 mph on Tangerine Rd. during work hours.
Pedestrian access: Sidewalks and paths will be impacted at times.

Digital message boards are in place to notify drivers. Motorists are reminded to slow down, follow traffic instructions, and use extra caution, as traffic control guidance will change throughout the night.

The Federal Highway Administration evaluated traffic signal displays and determined that flashing yellow arrows provide the highest safety benefit. Studies show significant reductions in accidents where flashing yellow arrows replaced the traditional circular green. This proven safety improvement is the reason the Town received federal funding for the project.

The Town of Oro Valley appreciates the community’s patience as we work to improve roadway safety.

For questions regarding construction, please contact the Public Works Department at 520-229-4850 or PW@orovalleyaz.gov.

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