BLACK CANYON CITY, Ariz. — The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) estimates about 1,000,000 vehicles use the 23-mile corridor between Anthem Way to Sunset Point on the Black Canyon highway every year.
“Right now, we see a lot of congestion in the area of Anthem Way and Sunset Point,” said Laura Douglas. Spokesperson with ADOT.
A $446 million construction project on the I-17 is now underway, and ADOT says it will help alleviate congestion and make travel between Flagstaff and Phoenix more flexible.
To help alleviate those headaches, crews will be adding another lane going in both directions on the I-17.
“Widening 15 miles of roadway between Anthem Way to Black Canyon City…and then from Black Canyon City to Sunset Point, we’re going to be adding 8 miles of flex lane,” said Douglas.
Douglas says the flex lanes can be opened during high-volume traffic.
Then there are those crashes or emergencies that completely stop traffic leaving travelers stuck. The flex lanes would be used to help drivers maneuver around it.
The project also includes the widening of 10 bridges and the replacement of two bridges. Most heavy construction that requires lane closures will occur in the overnight hours. It will all take three years to complete. For updates on projects, visit ADOT's website.
“So, this will help alleviate congestion. It will add capacity, and it will also improve safety as more cars can move more freely,” said Douglas.
The funding for this project is a mix of federal and state funding.
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