The Arizona Department of Transportation announced on March 11 that a pavement improvement project along State Route 51 between the Interstate 10 “Mini-Stack” interchange and Shea Boulevard in Phoenix will begin this weekend, from March 13 to March 16.
The project is expected to impact drivers as it includes a series of weekend closures over the next several months. The work aims to remove worn asphalt and apply diamond grinding for a smoother ride and reduced tire noise. According to the department, southbound SR 51 will be closed between Cactus Road and Northern Avenue from 9 p.m. Friday, March 13, until 5 a.m. Monday, March 16. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes such as southbound Interstate 17 or follow detours via Cactus/Thunderbird roads, Seventh Street, and Northern Avenue.
The $17.8 million project is scheduled for completion in the fall and will also require weeknight lane and ramp restrictions or closures. Diamond grinding has already been used on other Phoenix-area freeways including I-10, I-17, US 60, Loop 101, and Loop 202.
This initiative is part of the Maricopa Association of Governments’ Regional Transportation Plan and is funded by voter-approved Proposition 479 through a half-cent sales tax dedicated to transportation improvements in the Phoenix region.
Arizona Department of Transportation manages various facilities such as rest areas, snowplow operations with specialized equipment, and highway cameras for monitoring according to the official website. The department aims to safely link individuals and support economic growth through its transportation initiatives according to its official website. Jennifer Toth serves as director of Arizona Department of Transportation, overseeing planning, design, construction, maintenance, and operation of state transportation systems according to the agency.
ADOT’s efforts extend across multiple districts statewide—from Grand Canyon National Airport to southern border ports—and include collaboration with regional partners on projects like corridor studies and traveler information systems according to ADOT. The department also provides services such as traveler updates via AZ511 system, motor vehicle support services, construction oversight, and infrastructure enhancements at airports and ports as reported by ADOT.
Real-time highway conditions can be accessed at az511.gov or through the AZ511 app for Apple and Android devices. Updates are also available via ADOT’s X feed @ArizonaDOT.
