Why did ACA change the Southern Tier

[John Nettles]

I was wondering if anyone knew why ACA rerouted the Southern Tier so that it goes Safford, AZ to Lordsburg, NM, then up to Silver City, NM.  It used to go from Safford along AZ-78 & NM-78 to US-180 then down to Silver City.  I know it has been changed for several years, just wondering. 

The only reasons I can think of are that the updated route is less hilly (Climbing Index of ~48 compared to ~67), has more services, and has a transportation center while being only about a couple dozen miles longer.  However, the traffic is higher overall on the new route and scenery, at least to me, is much less interesting.  I remember reading some journals way back when that some people were nervous about about having to wild camp along the route so maybe that was it?? 

Anyway, does anyone know the reason? 

Tailwinds, John

[John Nelson]

The only reasons I can think of are that the updated route is less hilly

When has the ACA ever selected a route because it is less hilly?

[John Nettles]

When has the ACA ever selected a route because it is less hilly?

Don't know but the new route does have less climbing.  I was just throwing out possibilities, not verified reasons.  I thought they used to prioritize safety over everything, within reason.  That is why they changed Bicycle Route 66 through Tulsa area because in places Route 66 is quite dangerous for a loaded touring cyclists due to traffic.

[jamawani]

If I remember correctly - ACA made the switch around 2014-15.
Two things were discussed:
1. Limited services at Buckhorn and Cliff some of which had shut down.
2. The remoteness, safety, difficulty of Mule Creek Pass.

[John Nettles]

Thanks John.  I could believe it.  Like I said, I am pretty sure I read a few journals that indicated what you said.  Thanks for helping me solve this riddle.  I personally would probably ride the original and just stock up on extra food & water. But to each their own of course.