Grand Canyon Times

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) recently began construction on the long-planned Interstate 17 Improvement Project in Phoenix from Anthem Way to Sunset Point.

Work on the $446 million, 23-mile project, is expected to take about three years, according to a Sept. 26 ADOT press release.

“All who travel I-17 regularly for weekend trips and daily commutes will benefit, including commercial truckers who use this key commerce corridor to haul goods and services throughout our state," Arizona Gov., Doug Ducey, said in the release. "This project is critical for Arizona drivers and our state’s economy.”

John Halikowski, ADOT director, reassured drivers that the project will alleviate many travel problems.

“I want all drivers to be aware that ADOT is adding lanes to improve safety and reduce driver frustration by relieving the congestion the current configuration causes,” he said. “Although there will be additional lanes, it is up to drivers to behave responsibly, operate their vehicles according to the law and, above all, be patient and courteous with each other.”

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) and the Federal Highway Administration is working with ADOT on the project, the release stated.

“The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) recognizes that transportation is not only about getting where you want to go, it also is about our quality of life – visiting family, doing the things we love with the people we love,” MAG Transportation Policy Committee Chairman and Maricopa County Supervisor, Jack Sellers, said in the release. “Transportation is about our economy. It is about safety. That is why transportation investment is so important, and why MAG contributed funding to this project from Anthem Way to the Yavapai County line.”