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The Arizona Department of Transportation is scheduled to begin work on the Interstate 10 and Houghton Road traffic interchange reconstruction project the week of Aug. 24.
The project is designed to improve traffic operations in this growing part of the Tucson metropolitan area.
Key elements of the project include:
- Constructing a new six-lane bridge over I-10 just west of the existing bridge
- Demolishing the existing bridge
- Reconfiguring the interchange as a diverging diamond interchange
- Making improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists
For the first several days, traffic impacts should be minor while crews mobilize equipment and begin clearing areas near the work zone.
Starting as soon as Monday, Aug. 31, the entrance ramp from Houghton Road to eastbound I-10 and the exit ramp from westbound I-10 to Houghton Road will close for nearly three months. The full closures of the two ramps will allow crews to reconstruct the ramps in one phase. Traffic will be detoured to the Colossal Cave/Wentworth Road interchange.
Except for the full closures of the two ramps noted above, work will be staged to keep Houghton Road, I-10 and the existing ramps open to the greatest extent possible, particularly during daytime hours. The following overnight traffic restrictions will be required at times during the project:
- Lane restrictions on I-10 (a single lane in each direction)
- Occasional closures of Houghton Road at I-10
- Occasional closures of various ramps between I-10 and Houghton Road
Additional notices will be shared as restrictions are scheduled.
The project is scheduled for completion in late 2021.
The interchange will be the first diverging diamond interchange in the Tucson area. In this type of interchange, traffic temporarily crosses to the left side of the road within the interchange area. Vehicles are guided safely through the interchange using signals, signs and pavement markings. Diverging diamond interchanges simplify signal phasing by eliminating the need for left turn arrows from Houghton Road onto I-10.
For more information about diverging diamond interchanges or the project in general, go to azdot.gov/i10Houghton.
Drivers should proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down and watch for construction personnel and equipment.
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