Grand Canyon Times

A section of southbound Interstate 17 between State Route 74 and Loop 303 in north Phoenix will be closed this weekend from February 28 to March 3. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is concluding its pavement improvement project on I-17. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider adjusting their schedules to avoid delays during the closure period.

The closure will commence at 10 p.m. on Friday, February 28, and end at 5 a.m. on Monday, March 3. Additionally, the southbound I-17 on-ramps at SR 74 and Dove Valley Road will be closed. ADOT suggests using the detour route on westbound SR 74 and advises against using streets east of I-17 that are not designed for freeway traffic. The recommended detour involves traveling west on State Route 74 to southbound Lake Pleasant Parkway and then taking eastbound Loop 303 back to I-17.

The I-17 project has involved removing the old asphalt pavement's top layer and treating the concrete beneath with diamond grinding. This work has resulted in a safer, smoother, and longer-lasting surface over a six-mile stretch north of Happy Valley Road. Recent efforts have focused on replacing steel bridge deck joints spanning the freeway's width. The project began last May.

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