Travelers in Phoenix should prepare for significant disruptions on several major highways this holiday weekend. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced multiple closures and lane restrictions across various freeways to facilitate construction projects. Drivers are advised to plan alternative routes or allocate additional time for their journeys. Key affected areas include portions of Loop 101, Interstate 10, State Route 51, and U.S. 60, with specific detours provided to help motorists navigate around the impacted sections.
The Eastbound Loop 101 will undergo pavement maintenance from Friday evening until early Monday morning, closing the stretch between Cave Creek Road and State Route 51. During this period, drivers can use Union Hills Drive or Deer Valley Road as alternate routes. Meanwhile, Interstate 10 will experience a series of closures and lane reductions over the weekend. Eastbound I-10 will be closed between I-17 and State Route 51 for tunnel maintenance, redirecting traffic via southbound I-17. Additionally, westbound I-10 will also face closures near Sky Harbor Airport, requiring drivers to take northbound I-17 detours.
Other notable closures include the southbound State Route 51 ramp to westbound I-10 and the westbound Loop 202 ramps to westbound I-10. For those traveling on U.S. 60, the westbound ramp to eastbound I-10 will be shut down for bridge work. ADOT suggests using westbound I-10 and exiting at Broadway Road before rejoining eastbound I-10. These changes aim to expedite the completion of critical infrastructure improvements, such as the I-10 Broadway Curve Project in Phoenix.
Closure schedules may vary due to unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. Authorities urge all drivers to exercise caution and anticipate delays when navigating through these restricted areas. By staying informed and planning ahead, travelers can minimize inconvenience and ensure a smoother journey during this busy holiday period.