Motorists in metro Phoenix face significant freeway closures this weekend due to ongoing widening and maintenance projects. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has scheduled multiple sections of Loop 101 and Loop 202 for work, potentially impacting travel for thousands of drivers. These closures are part of the larger Regional Transportation Plan aimed at improving infrastructure across Maricopa County.
Key Takeaways
- Northbound Loop 101 will close between Shea Boulevard and Princess Drive/Pima Road.
- Westbound Loop 202 will close between Arizona Avenue and Price Road.
- A section of southbound Loop 101 will be narrowed for maintenance.
- All schedules depend on weather conditions, especially potential rain.
- Drivers should use ADOT's resources for real-time traffic updates.
Major Closures Affect Key Phoenix Freeways
Two major freeway sections in metro Phoenix will experience full closures this weekend. These closures are necessary for critical infrastructure improvements. Drivers should plan for extended travel times and consider alternative routes.
The Arizona Department of Transportation issued a statement regarding the work. "Schedules are subject to change due to rain," ADOT noted. This means weather conditions could alter the planned work or delay reopening times.
ADOT is responsible for planning and constructing new freeways, adding lanes, and making other improvements. These efforts are part of the Regional Transportation Plan for Maricopa County. The plan aims to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion in the growing metropolitan area.
Fact: Regional Transportation Plan
The Regional Transportation Plan for Maricopa County is a long-term strategy. It includes projects to expand and improve the freeway system. The goal is to accommodate population growth and increasing traffic demands.
Northbound Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) Closure Details
A significant closure will affect the northbound Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) in Scottsdale. This section is undergoing a widening project to increase capacity.
The closure begins at 10 p.m. on Friday, September 26, and is scheduled to end at 5 a.m. on Monday, September 29. The affected segment is between Shea Boulevard and Princess Drive/Pima Road. Additionally, on-ramps at Via De Ventura and 90th Street will be closed during this period.
Drivers needing to travel northbound on Loop 101 should consider detours. One suggested alternative is to take westbound Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway) to northbound State Route 51, which can then connect back to Loop 101.
"Planning ahead for these closures can help reduce frustration and travel delays," an ADOT spokesperson advised.
Additional Work on Loop 101 Frontage Road
In addition to the main freeway closure, the southbound Loop 101 frontage road will also see temporary closures. This closure is for sign work.
The frontage road will be closed from 9 p.m. on Friday, September 26, to 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 27. This specific work will occur between Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard and Raintree Drive.
Understanding Freeway Widening Projects
Freeway widening projects often involve adding new lanes, improving interchanges, and updating signage. These projects are complex and require full closures for safety reasons. They allow construction crews to work efficiently on large sections of the roadway.
Westbound Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) Closure
Another major closure will impact the westbound Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) in Chandler. This closure is also part of a widening project, specifically for bridge work.
The westbound Santan Freeway will be closed from 10 p.m. on Friday, September 26, until 5 a.m. on Monday, September 29. The closure spans the section between Arizona Avenue and Price Road. On-ramps at Gilbert, Cooper, and McQueen roads will also be inaccessible.
For those traveling westbound on Loop 202, alternative routes are available. Westbound U.S. 60 (Superstition Freeway) is a recommended detour. Drivers can also exit the Santan Freeway before the closure and use Pecos Road or Germann Road as local detours.
Traffic Data Point
According to ADOT, major freeway widening projects in the Phoenix area have historically reduced travel times by an average of 15% once completed, despite temporary disruptions during construction.
Arizona Avenue Closure at Loop 202
Arizona Avenue will also experience a temporary closure at Loop 202. This closure is related to the bridge work on the Santan Freeway.
Arizona Avenue will be closed in both directions at Loop 202 from 10 p.m. on Friday, September 26, to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 27. Drivers in this area should seek local detours.
Southbound Loop 101 (Price Freeway) Lane Restrictions
In addition to the full closures, a section of southbound Loop 101 (Price Freeway) in Tempe will face lane restrictions for maintenance work.
From 9 p.m. on Friday, September 26, to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, southbound Loop 101 will be narrowed to two lanes. This will occur between University Drive and Broadway Road. The on-ramps from University Drive and Broadway Road will also be closed.
Motorists traveling through this area should expect delays. It is advisable to allow extra travel time or use alternative routes to avoid congestion during these maintenance activities. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the safety and integrity of the freeway system.
- Check ADOT Resources: For the most current information, drivers should visit az511.gov, use the az511 app, or call 511.
- Plan Ahead: Reviewing closure details and planning detours before starting a trip can save time.
- Drive Safely: Always follow posted speed limits and construction zone warnings.
ADOT emphasizes that these projects are critical for enhancing the region's transportation network. While temporary closures cause inconvenience, they contribute to long-term improvements in traffic flow and safety for all drivers in Maricopa County.
