Arizona officially passed a state budget last week that will fully fund the widening of I-17 between Anthem and Black Canyon City.
In all, $130 million will be invested over three years into the construction of third lanes going both directions of I-17. This will supplement planned work on I-17 flex lanes that will begin in 2021 and cover the ground between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) said the projects, when completed, will increase capacity, safety and help ease traffic flow. The widening project will also benefit from $50 million in regional funds given by the Maricopa Association of Governments.
“As Governor Ducey and members of the legislature recognize, investing in critical transportation infrastructure will drive Arizona’s 21st-century economy. Our leaders are investing today to support Arizona’s future prosperity,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “As we expand critical commerce corridors and safeguard our state’s $22.6 billion investment in our transportation system, it’s equally important to keep roads in our rural communities safe and reliable.”
More than $190 million has already been committed to the flex lane project, along with the addition of seven miles of a third southbound lane to the south. The flex lanes will work as a separate two-lane road supporting one direction of traffic at a time along the eight miles between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point.
Additional funding in the budget puts $10 million toward an ADOT study on adding lanes to I-10 and another $10.5 million for extending the life of existing pavement along state highways. Further, $95 million in appropriations from the State General Fund will support safety and economic development-targeting transportation projects throughout the state.