Relief coming to Interstate 17 north of Phoenix

Relief is coming to Interstate 17 north of the Valley. I’m pleased to announce that construction has begun on improvements to Interstate 17 between Anthem Way and Sunset Point, a major stretch of highway that sees more than one million travelers every year.

I want to thank Governor Doug Ducey for his support in providing $40 million from higher-than-anticipated revenue amid Arizona’s strong economic recovery and federal COVID-relief funds. I also wish to thank the Arizona State Legislature for appropriating $130 million of state highways funds in 2019 to fund the project. Our other financial partner is the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), which is providing $50 million. The Arizona Department of Transportation was successful in receiving a $90 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant to help fund the project, along with $135.9 million from federal aid with matching state highway funds. The total project is expected to cost $445.9 million.

As you can see, this project requires a great deal of collaboration and support from our regional, state and federal partners, including the Federal Highway Administration.

ADOT heard from Arizona motorists, businesses and tourists during our public outreach efforts, voicing their support for widening and improving I-17 north of the Valley to alleviate congestion and improve safety and traffic flow. The I-17 project will improve 23 miles of the interstate, including 15 miles of roadway widening, two bridge replacements, one bridge deck replacement, 10 bridge widenings and the installment of an eight-mile flex lane system – a new feature for Arizona’s highway system. Flex lanes are proven technology to help reduce congestion on I-17 during peak travel times and allow for traffic movement during emergency situations.

ADOT anticipates construction will continue through 2025. I want to remind drivers to pay attention and obey speed limits in the construction zone. ADOT’s True North is getting everyone safely home, and that includes our construction crews.?

The I-17 Improvement Project will provide much needed relief from traffic congestion, and is a profound step toward enhancing the safety and efficiency of one of Arizona’s most iconic highways. I encourage you to visit our project website, Improvingi17.com, to stay informed.