Grand Canyon Times

Southbound Interstate 17 in north Phoenix will be closed this weekend for pavement and bridge improvements, as announced by the Arizona Department of Transportation. The closure is set to occur between Loop 303 and Happy Valley Road from 10 p.m. on Friday, February 14, to 5 a.m. on Monday, February 17. During this period, southbound I-17 on-ramps at SR 74/Carefree Highway and Dove Valley Road will also be closed.

The primary detour for southbound I-17 traffic involves using westbound Loop 303 to southbound Lake Pleasant Parkway and eastbound Happy Valley Road. Drivers are advised to follow this route even if navigation apps suggest alternatives, as streets east of I-17 are not equipped to handle freeway traffic. Some local street closures will be enforced.

This project aims to improve the pavement along I-17 between Happy Valley Road and State Route 74 by removing the old asphalt layer and treating the concrete beneath with diamond grinding. Two additional weekend closures are planned: northbound I-17 between Happy Valley Road and Loop 303 from February 21 to February 24, and southbound I-17 between SR 74/Carefree Highway and Loop 303 from February 28 to March 3.

The schedule may change due to weather or other factors. The work has already enhanced safety and surface quality over six miles of I-17 north of Happy Valley Road since it began in May 2024.

For real-time highway conditions, visit ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, use the AZ511 app available for Apple or Android devices, or call 511.