As Monday night football brings the Arizona Cardinals up against the Los Angeles Chargers, travelers in the Phoenix area should brace themselves for a notably congested evening commute. The Arizona Department of Transportation has issued a warning that westbound Interstate 10 and Loop 101, notably near the Agua Fria Freeway in Glendale, will be far busier than usual. Fans and commuters alike are being advised to adjust their schedules accordingly for the 6 p.m. kickoff at State Farm Stadium on Monday, Oct. 21.
The department suggests that those coming from the Chandler/southeast Valley region should to definitely consider taking the westbound/northbound Loop 202 (South Mountain Freeway) as an alternative route to avoid I-10 near downtown Phoenix. This advisory comes in anticipation of the traffic surges induced by the convergence of football fans and regular motorists. Stadium parking lots, according to the city of Glendale, will open at 2 p.m. on the day, providing early arrivals an opportunity to secure parking before the crowds thicken.
The Arizona Department of Transportation also notes that Glendale will close the Loop 101 off-ramps at Cardinals Way and Maryland Avenue near the stadium from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. to assist with traffic flow. Commuters and fans are encouraged to plan ahead, leave ample time for travel, and exercise patience as they navigate the congestion.
For those looking to keep an eye on the evolving traffic conditions, real-time updates can be found on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, or by dialing 511. In the wake of the game, drivers should to be ready for heavier freeway traffic along sections of Loop 101 and I-10 as the crowd disperses from State Farm Stadium. ADOT further stays connected with the public on roadway conditions and updates via its Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT, ensuring that no traveler needs to go into their commute unprepared.
