With Thanksgiving travel expected to surge across Arizona, state transportation officials are urging drivers to give themselves extra time, stay alert and prepare for slower conditions on major highways.
The Arizona Department of Transportation says it will pause all scheduled construction and maintenance closures from Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 26, through Monday morning, Dec. 1. Even so, busy routes such as Interstate 17 north of Phoenix, Interstate 10 and State Route 87 are likely to see periods of heavy congestion.
Travelers heading toward northern Arizona will benefit from two recent improvements: ADOT’s new eight-mile flex-lane system between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point, and the widened stretch of I-17 between Anthem Way and Black Canyon City. The flex lanes will operate northbound Wednesday through Saturday, then switch southbound on Sunday, Nov. 30.
Officials warn that unexpected delays — including crashes, disabled vehicles or weather-related slowdowns — remain possible throughout the long weekend. ADOT and law enforcement agencies will have teams ready to clear incidents quickly, but drivers are encouraged to prepare before hitting the road.
Recommended steps include checking tire pressure and fluid levels, getting adequate rest, and packing an emergency kit with items such as water, snacks, blankets, warm clothing, a flashlight and a first-aid kit.
Last year, Arizona saw 10 fatal crashes over the Thanksgiving period, four of which involved alcohol, underscoring the importance of sober and focused driving.
Motorists in the Phoenix area may also see ADOT’s Incident Response Unit patrolling freeways to assist with stalled vehicles and traffic incidents.
Real-time statewide travel conditions are available through ADOT’s AZ511 website and mobile app.
