PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has scheduled a significant closure of the northbound lanes on Interstate 17 between Loop 303 and State Route 74. The closure will commence at 10 p.m. on May 17 and continue until 5 a.m. on Monday, May 20, for necessary pavement work.

Impacts and Frustrations from Previous Closures

Residents and drivers are already bracing for the inconvenience, especially after the southbound closure last week caused extensive backups and detour confusion. One local, Alex, expressed his concerns about the limited alternative routes, pointing out the difficulty in finding viable detours even on dirt roads. Another resident, Daniel, highlighted the inconvenience, noting that he would have to leave his house two hours earlier to reach his destinations.

ADOT’s Response and Improved Planning

ADOT spokesperson Doug Nintzel acknowledged the frustrations from the previous closure. He emphasized that this time, the department has put significant effort into better planning and communication to minimize disruptions. Drivers will be directed to a two-lane frontage road system as the primary detour. Nintzel assured that while the construction might be a short-term hassle, the long-term benefits of smoother and safer roads are worth the temporary inconvenience.

Detailed Detour Plans and Recommendations

ADOT has provided specific detour routes to help mitigate traffic issues:

• Exit to Northbound Frontage Road: Between Loop 303 and SR 74.
• Avoid Local Streets: Particularly North Valley Parkway, to prevent neighborhood congestion.
• Travel Tips: Leave early, avoid peak hours, and stick to designated detour routes.

Nintzel reiterated that the objective is to move traffic efficiently through the frontage road system, avoiding local streets that are not equipped to handle the additional freeway traffic.

Business and Community Impact

The closures are not only affecting drivers but also local businesses and communities along the route. Roger Vore, owner of Rock Springs Cafe, expressed a pragmatic view, recognizing the necessity of the road improvements despite the temporary inconvenience. He noted that despite the roadwork, customers continued to patronize his cafe, understanding the long-term benefits of the project.

Other Phoenix-Area Freeway Closures

The I-17 closure is part of a broader set of freeway closures scheduled in the Phoenix area this weekend:

• Northbound Loop 101 Price Freeway: Closed from U.S. 60 to Loop 202 Red Mountain Freeway from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday for pavement work. On-ramps at Warner, Elliot, and Guadalupe roads will also be closed.
• Southbound Loop 202 to Eastbound U.S. 60: Closed during the same period for bridge maintenance.
• Northbound State Route 143: Closed from Broadway Road to Washington Street from 10 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Monday for paving.
• Eastbound U.S. 60 in Tempe: Closed from Interstate 10 to Mill Avenue from 10 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Monday for sign work.

Preparing for the Weekend

Given the multiple closures, ADOT advises drivers to plan ahead, consider alternative routes, and remain patient. These closures, while inconvenient, are essential for maintaining and improving the roadway infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient travel in the future.

ADOT’s concerted efforts to address the previous weekend’s issues and the ongoing commitment to communication and planning reflect their dedication to minimizing disruption while accomplishing necessary road improvements.

For the latest updates and detailed detour maps, drivers are encouraged to download The Local News App to their phones by clicking the download prompt, ensuring they stay informed and prepared for the upcoming closures.
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