PHOENIX – To reduce traffic backups from crashes, congestion
and other incidents along Interstate 17 north of Phoenix, the Arizona
Department of Transportation is evaluating options that include the possibility
of reversible lanes on the grade between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point.
The reversible-lane concept is among alternatives being
considered to move more traffic while enhancing safety along that winding
eight-mile stretch of I-17.
Regardless of whether reversible lanes become a reality,
ADOT’s goals include expanding I-17 capacity along more than just those eight
miles. As part of the state’s Key Commerce Corridors plan, which proposed
investments in interstates and other highways to support economic growth, ADOT
recommended widening I-17 to three lanes north of Anthem Way.
“I-17 is vital for passenger and commercial traffic between
Phoenix and northern Arizona communities,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said.
“We’re determined to identify options to increase the lane capacity along the
highway while also working with the Department of Public Safety and other
partners to reduce driver behaviors that lead to crashes and cause unnecessary
delays. Drivers can be a big help in this effort by exercising patience
and good judgment to improve safety in that area.”
With the State Transportation Board’s approval of ADOT’s
five-year construction program last June, $3 million is being used this fiscal
year for preliminary design work on alternatives for the corridor between Black
Canyon City and Sunset Point. Another $5 million has been set aside in fiscal
2020 for final design.
A possible design for reversible lanes would feature a
barrier at each end of the system that would be adjusted to open additional
lanes in one direction of travel at any one time. For example, the lanes would
be available for northbound traffic to use at the beginning of a weekend or
available for southbound traffic on a Sunday afternoon or evening.
A preliminary design has estimated the construction costs
for such a system at $125 million. While no funding is currently available for
a reversible-lane system or widening projects, ADOT is aggressively seeking
solutions including the possibility of a public-private partnership that could
move a large project along sooner and at a lower cost.
More immediately, ADOT later this year will launch a
safety-based project to add six electronic “speed feedback” signs along I-17
north of the Phoenix area. Those signs will display vehicle speeds while
reminding drivers of the posted speed limit. ADOT’s project also will add four
new electronic message signs to provide information about highway conditions
along with safety messages.
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