Traffic alert: Southbound I-17 closed in north Phoenix, as ADOT warns against using nav apps

Phoenix, Arizona: A stretch of southbound Interstate 17 is scheduled to be closed this weekend (July 26-29) in north Phoenix for ongoing pavement improvement work, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Drivers should allow extra time, consider traveling during non-peak morning or nighttime hours and stay on the designated detour route with southbound I-17 closed between Loop 303 and Happy Valley Road from 10pm Friday to 5am Monday.

Traffic will detour on westbound Loop 303 to southbound Lake Pleasant Parkway and use eastbound Happy Valley Road to return to I-17.

ADOT offers these suggestions

Southbound I-17 drivers should avoid attempting to use local streets east of I-17 as alternate routes. Lengthy traffic backups are unavoidable during freeway closures like this one, so drivers should plan ahead. Those with weekend plans to use southbound I-17 through the north Valley can consider traveling before Friday night’s closure begins.

Traffic on southbound I-17 also generally is lighter during the early morning hours or later at night and is expected to be especially busy on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

ADOT will be placing local-only closures at neighborhood entrances on a number of streets near I-17 to help direct detour traffic away from local roadways. Law enforcement officers will be stationed at intersections throughout the area to assist with traffic flow.

ADOT also is taking steps to reduce the chances that navigation apps will direct drivers to other local roads. Staying on the detour route regardless of what a navigation app may suggest is the best way to reduce delays for yourself and others. 

Crews are continuing a project to improve the ride on six miles of I-17 between Happy Valley Road and State Route 74. Additional I-17 closures or lane restrictions will be needed as the work proceeds.