Arizona drivers heading out for Memorial Day weekend travel will catch a rare break on the roads this year. The Arizona Department of Transportation announced that no full construction closures are scheduled on state highways over the holiday weekend, including major freeways in the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas.
The decision comes as one of the busiest travel weekends of the year begins, with thousands of Arizonans expected to hit the road for trips to Northern Arizona, California, Las Vegas, and destinations across the state.
ADOT said the move is intended to help ease congestion and improve traffic flow as the summer travel season officially gets underway.
ADOT Urges Drivers To Plan Ahead
Even without major construction shutdowns, ADOT warned drivers to expect heavy traffic during peak travel periods, particularly Friday afternoon and Monday as holiday travelers return home.
The agency encouraged motorists to:
- Allow extra travel time
- Check traffic conditions before leaving
- Slow down and drive cautiously in existing work zones
- Avoid distracted driving
- Stay hydrated during long road trips
ADOT also released its Memorial Day Weekend Travel Advisory Map, which includes safe driving tips and details on remaining lane restrictions or minor roadway impacts throughout the state.
Summer Travel Season Begins Across Arizona
Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the unofficial start of Arizona’s summer travel season, with higher traffic volumes on Interstate 17 heading toward Flagstaff and along highways leading to lakes, campgrounds, and mountain destinations.
Gas prices remain a major factor for travelers this year, though many Arizona families are still expected to take advantage of the long weekend despite inflation concerns and higher travel costs nationwide.
Officials are reminding drivers that even though full freeway closures are paused, crews may still be present in some construction zones, meaning speed limits and safety restrictions remain in effect.
Phoenix Freeways Expected To Stay Busy
Traffic analysts expect some of the heaviest congestion in the Phoenix area to occur on:
- Interstate 17 northbound
- Loop 101 near Scottsdale
- US 60 eastbound
- Interstate 10 westbound leaving Phoenix
Drivers traveling during non-peak hours are likely to experience the smoothest conditions.
ADOT said travelers should continue monitoring highway conditions throughout the weekend in case crashes, weather, or unexpected incidents affect traffic patterns.
