Arizonans traveling over the Fourth of July holiday will get a break from freeway construction, but transportation officials say they should still expect heavy traffic and possible delays across the state’s busiest highways.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) announced it will suspend all scheduled full closures on state highways, including Phoenix-area freeways, from Thursday afternoon, July 2, through Monday morning, July 6. The move is intended to reduce travel disruptions during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
Even with construction projects on hold, ADOT cautioned motorists that “drivers should prepare for heavier traffic at times and be ready in case of delays.”
Expect Delays on Arizona’s Busiest Highways
Holiday travelers should plan for slower traffic on several major routes, including:
- Interstate 10 between Phoenix and California
- Interstate 17 north of Phoenix
- State Route 87 between Fountain Hills and Payson
- U.S. 93 between Wickenburg and Hoover Dam
- Interstate 8 between Phoenix and Yuma
To help improve traffic flow, the I-17 flex lanes between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point will operate northbound through late Saturday before switching to southbound traffic on Sunday for drivers returning to the Valley.
While there are no planned construction closures, ADOT emphasized that crashes, disabled vehicles, wildfires, blowing dust, and other emergencies can still result in unexpected highway closures and delays.
ADOT Urges Drivers to Prepare Before Leaving
With triple-digit temperatures expected across much of Arizona, officials recommend travelers check their vehicles before departing and carry an emergency kit that includes:
- Extra drinking water
- First-aid supplies
- Flashlight and batteries
- Cellphone charger
- Prescription medications
- Snacks
- Blankets
- Basic tools
Drivers are also encouraged to check tire pressure and engine fluids, avoid distractions behind the wheel, get adequate rest before long trips, never drive impaired, and always wear a seat belt. Motorists towing trailers should ensure safety chains are secured to prevent sparks that could ignite roadside brush fires.
Check Arizona Road Conditions Before You Travel
ADOT maintenance crews and the agency’s Incident Response Unit will be on patrol throughout the holiday weekend to assist stranded motorists and respond to roadway incidents. Travelers are encouraged to check current highway conditions before leaving home using the state’s 511 travel information system.
With thousands of Arizonans expected to head north to the High Country, west toward California, and across the state for Independence Day celebrations, planning ahead and allowing extra travel time could make the holiday weekend safer and less stressful.
