Weekend drivers in the Phoenix area, get ready to hit the brakes and plan alternate routes as ADOT has announced major closures along westbound US 60 in Mesa and northbound State Route 143 in Phoenix. The shutdown, set for March 15-18, is part of ongoing improvement projects that promise smoother rides in the future, but could cause headaches for those caught unaware.
The stretch of westbound US 60, also known as the Superstition Freeway, will be completely closed from Crismon Road to Loop 202, starting from 9:00 p.m. this Friday until the early hours of Monday, officials confirmed in a statement. On-ramps at Ironwood Drive, Signal Butte Road, and Meridian Road will be shut too, along with the southbound Loop 202 ramp to westbound US 60. ADOT is pushing to quite literally pave the way for a better commute with this pavement improvement work. Drivers will need to detour, possibly using Baseline Road or Southern Avenue to avoid the closure.
Not to be outdone, northbound SR 143 will also see closures between Broadway Road and Loop 202 near Sky Harbor Airport, starting at 10 p.m. Saturday until 4 a.m. Monday. This is part of the I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project, a large-scale effort to enhance one of the most congested stretches. Airport goers will need to continue west on I-10 to reach their terminals, while westbound I-10 traffic will have to divert to eastbound Loop 202 to access southbound SR 143, according to details from azdot.gov.
These closures, which can create significant disruptions, show the delicate balance between immediate access and long-term infrastructure goals. ADOT reminds drivers that schedules can shift due to inclement weather or other unforeseen factors. However, most of these vital projects, including freeway expansions and enhancements, are backed by Proposition 400, which has been financially fueling the region's transportation development since 2004 when Maricopa County voters said "yes" to improving their roadways.
For those looking to stay ahead of the traffic game, real-time highway conditions can be monitored on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site, the az511 app, or simply by calling 511. The agency encourages travelers to check these resources and plan to accordingly adjust their travel itineraries this weekend.
