At the Arizona-Nevada border, the engineering feat known as the Hoover Dam Bypass is forming across the span created by the Colorado River. The bridge will connect the roads for U.S. Route 93. You can think of this project as the big sister of the Hoover Dam, with a production cost of close to $240 million.
There are many reasons the bypass is being constructed. It will improve safety, security, and traffic capacity. There was concern about the security of the Hoover Dam after the 9/11 attacks. Trucks have to take a detour around Hoover Dam as a security precaution. However, there are thousands of people who cross the Dam daily, not only just to cross into the other state but to also do some sightseeing. The bridge will reduce the possibility of an attack at Hoover Dam due to all of the crossing traffic no longer going over the Dam itself.
Hoover Dam Bypass Sept. 09
As of now, wait times to get over the Dam could reach one hour depending on the amount of traffic. There are checkpoints at which people must stop to make sure nothing dangerous could make its way onto Hoover Dam. With the bridge, those just wanting to cross state lines will no longer have to worry about waiting a long time just to go a small distance.
For those who want to stay and explore Boulder City, the Hoover Dam, and its surroundings, there are a number of hotels in the city. The newest of the Boulder City hotels is the Hoover Dam Inn, opened in 1986, but renovated in June of 2005. It offers a pool, spa, free Wi-Fi, and a number of other amenities to its guests.
