Land Slide Closes State Route 87 for Emergency Repairs

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has closed State Route 87 after ADOT crews discovered a land slide between the Phoenix and Payson areas. The land slide is occurring in the Slate Creek area between Sunflower and Rye, which is causing buckling in the highway pavement at milepost 224. State Route 87 is closed in both directions between the Bush Highway and State Route 188 for safety reasons. ADOT is working with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and Gila County Sheriff Office to reroute traffic as a result of the closure. Drivers from the Phoenix area should go east on U.S. 60 to Globe and then go west on SR 188 to reach SR 87 and continue north to Payson. Drivers coming from Payson will go east on SR 188 to Globe and then head west on US 60 to reach the Phoenix area. Drivers also can use I-17 and SR 260 through the Camp Verde area to travel between Phoenix and Payson. ADOT has crews on the scene and is working to determine what actions can be taken to safely reopen the highway. At this time there is no anticipated date for reopening SR 87. ADOT appreciates the understanding of motorists as they use detour routes to travel between the Phoenix and Payson areas this holiday weekend. Motorists can dial 511 for roadway information, or go to ADOT's website www.az511.gov for up to date information