Commuters in Scottsdale experienced improved traffic flow this Monday morning with the opening of a new northbound lane on the Loop 101 Pima Freeway. This marks a significant step in the ongoing $108 million expansion project, which began in January 2024 and aims to ease congestion on this vital Arizona roadway.
Key Takeaways
- A new northbound lane on Loop 101 Pima Freeway is now open from Shea Boulevard to Princess Drive.
- This opening is a major milestone in the $108 million widening project.
- The project, funded by Proposition 400, is expected to finish by early next year.
- A new southbound lane will open after a freeway closure this coming weekend.
Loop 101 Widening Project Nears Completion
The Arizona Department of Transportation confirmed the new lane opening. Crews worked through the weekend, installing new lane stripes and removing barricades to prepare for Monday's commute. This addition increases the general purpose lanes from three to four along this stretch. The freeway also includes a high occupancy vehicle lane.
The overall project is on schedule for completion by early next year. It focuses on a 4.5-mile section of the freeway, a critical corridor for residents and visitors alike. This area includes exits serving key Scottsdale locations such as Westworld, the Scottsdale Airport, and the TPC Scottsdale golf course, known for hosting the WM Phoenix Open.
Project at a Glance
- Cost: $108 million
- Start Date: January 2024
- Projected Completion: Early next year
- Affected Stretch: 4.5 miles of Loop 101 Pima Freeway
Improved Traffic Flow Expected
The widening project was specifically designed to enhance traffic flow. With the addition of this new northbound lane, drivers should notice less congestion during peak travel times. The southbound direction will also see a new lane open after a planned freeway closure this upcoming weekend, further improving capacity.
This expansion is crucial for a rapidly growing area like Scottsdale. Reducing travel times and improving safety are primary goals. The project addresses the increasing number of vehicles using the Loop 101 daily, a trend seen across Maricopa County.
"This new lane is a critical step in alleviating traffic and improving daily commutes for thousands of drivers," said a spokesperson for the Arizona Department of Transportation. "We are committed to completing this project efficiently and safely."
Key Enhancements and Funding
Beyond the additional lanes, the project includes several other improvements aimed at modernizing the freeway and its interchanges. These enhancements are designed to handle current and future traffic demands more effectively.
Interchange and Lane Additions
- Signal and turn-lane enhancements at the Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard interchange.
- New turn-lane additions at Shea Boulevard, Raintree Drive, and Princess Drive/Pima Road.
- Installation of new signs, traffic signals, and updated lighting systems.
Funding the Future
The project is funded through Proposition 400, a half-cent transportation sales tax. Maricopa County voters approved this sales tax in 2004. This funding mechanism supports various transportation initiatives across the region, managed under the Regional Transportation Plan by the Maricopa Association of Governments.
The continued investment in infrastructure, such as the Loop 101 widening, reflects a proactive approach to managing urban growth and maintaining mobility. These projects are vital for the economic health and daily lives of residents in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Looking Ahead to Full Completion
With the opening of the northbound lane, attention now shifts to the completion of the southbound lane. This final major step will bring the two-year-long project to its conclusion. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming weekend closures for the final phase of construction.
Once fully complete, the Loop 101 Pima Freeway will offer improved capacity and a smoother experience for all motorists. This project represents a significant investment in the region's transportation network, designed to serve the community for years to come.
