[Phoenix] I-17 Closure this weekend

[David Allocco]

Here is info from ADOT about the closure if I-17 at Carefree Highway:

I-17 closure at the Carefree Highway this weekend
The Arizona Republic (Dolores Tropiano) contacted Laura Douglas about the closure of I-17 at the Carefree Highway this weekend. Laura provided the following points:
•	The closure will extend from the exit ramps to the entrance ramps. I-17 will be closed for about one third of a mile to allow crews to demolish the old original bridge at the Carefree Highway. The freeway will start to narrow about a half a mile before the exit. Drivers should expect slow traffic well before that point. 
•	There are no easy alternate routes, and it’s difficult to predict how long drivers will experience delays. This will not be an easy weekend for drivers. We want to give drivers some helpful advice ahead of time: 
•	If you can avoid travel in the area this weekend, please do so. 
•	Try to get an early start if you must travel on I-17. 
•	Give yourself plenty of extra travel time (at least 90 minutes during peak hours) to avoid frustration with slow traffic. 

Interstate 17 Closure at Carefree Highway
KTAR Radio (Jim Cross) asked for an interview about this weekend’s closure of I-17 at Carefree Highway (bridge demolition).  Doug Nintzel will speak to Mr. Cross early Wednesday morning.
•	There’s never a good weekend to close I-17.  We’re warning drivers ahead of time. 
•	Tearing down the old bridge is necessary to complete the more modern, wider bridge to handle increased traffic 
•	Urging drivers to get an early start on Saturday or Sunday to avoid longer lines of traffic as each day advances 
•	Media relations staff will be communicating with news media throughout the state this week. 
 

John C. Tucker
Community Relations Specialist
Arizona Department of Transportation
Communication and Community Partnerships
(602) 712-8202
Mobile (602) 206-5207
Media Line 1-800-949-8057