Construction on Arizona’s I-17 improvement project set to begin

According to The Trucker, the Arizona Department of Transportation’s long-awaited Interstate 17 Improvement Project from Anthem Way to Sunset Point has begun its first phase of construction. As the work zone is established and construction begins, drivers will notice changes to this 23-mile corridor. According to a news release, the $446 million project, which will add capacity and reduce congestion along the heavily traveled freight corridor, is expected to take three years to complete.

It consists of 15 miles of widening from Anthem Way to Black Canyon City and eight miles of flex lanes from Black Canyon City to Sunset Point. Drivers should plan their trips accordingly as various construction activities are expected along the 23-mile corridor.

“The I-17 Improvement Project is an important investment in Arizona’s transportation infrastructure,” said Gov. Doug Ducey. “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. This project is critical for Arizona drivers and our state’s economy.”

On this much-anticipated project, ADOT collaborated with the Maricopa Association of Governments and the Federal Highway Administration. “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,” said ADOT Director John Halikowski. “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. Let’s get everyone safely home.”

The project was partially funded by Proposition 400 funds, a dedicated sales tax approved by Maricopa County voters, as well as state and federal funds, including $40 million in state funding from higher-than-anticipated revenue due to Arizona’s strong economic recovery. Click here to sign up for weekly traffic alerts.