PHOENIX — Navigating Flagstaff’s highways just got a whole lot smoother. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced the completion of two significant road improvement projects aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility in the region.
A New Era for J.W. Powell Boulevard Bridge
A long-anticipated upgrade has been completed with the replacement of the J.W. Powell Boulevard bridge over Interstate 17. This $8.2 million project improves access for drivers heading to Pulliam Airport and Fort Tuthill Park, while also providing a safer crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The new, larger bridge was constructed adjacent to the old structure to minimize traffic disruption. Once completed, traffic was shifted to the new bridge, and the outdated structure was dismantled.
30 Miles of I-17 Get a Makeover
The second project, costing $35 million, focused on resurfacing a 30-mile stretch of southbound I-17 between McConnell Drive in Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim scenic overlook. This massive effort included upgrades to nine bridges and several on- and off-ramps.
The pavement project began in May 2022 and concluded just in time for the holiday travel season, wrapping up before Thanksgiving.
What These Improvements Mean for Travelers
With these enhancements, Flagstaff residents and visitors can expect smoother commutes, safer crossings, and improved infrastructure to support growing traffic demands. ADOT’s efforts underline its commitment to ensuring safer and more accessible roadways for all.
