Home Uncategorised No major freeway closures set for July 4 weekend

No major freeway closures set for July 4 weekend

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No major freeway closures set for July 4 weekend
State highways will be free of construction closures this holiday weekend, according to ADOT. There may, however, be some isolated lane restrictions around the state, but none in the Valley. [ADOT]

There is good news for travelers heading for cooler temperatures or a holiday getaway this weekend: no closures on state highways.

The Arizona Department of Transportation said it does not plan any full weekend construction or maintenance closures through July Fourth.

Still, ADOT is recommending travelers allow extra travel time and be prepared for lane restrictions in some existing work zones on some popular routes to cooler climates. Southbound Interstate 17 is narrowed to one lane in several areas for an ongoing pavement improvement project along the 30-mile-stretch south of I-40 in Flagstaff. Heavy delays in the area are anticipated during peak travel times this weekend including Monday afternoon and evening, July 4.

Other statewide restrictions include that could cause delays according to ADOT include:

  • State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon north of Sedona will have traffic alternating one direction at a time in the “Switchbacks” area due to an ongoing highway improvement project;
  • Northbound US 93 at the Kabba Wash Bridge south of I-40 will narrow a single lane for a bridge project and is expected to cause slower traffic;
  • SR 260 in Heber will be closed from approximately 9 a.m. to noon Saturday July 2 for the community’s Independence Day parade, and traffic will detour on local streets.

“Drivers who are planning road trips over the Independence Day weekend should prepare ahead of time for hot and potentially stormy weather in areas, stay alert and bring along essential items in case of an unscheduled stop in traffic,” ADOT said in a news release.

ADOT also offered these tips for a smooth weekend trip on Arizona highways:

  • Those with travel plans also should be prepared for unscheduled highway closures due to disabled vehicles, crashes or other incidents such as wildfires.
  • Motorists also should pack extra drinking water and other items including blankets, a first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, a fully charged cell phone and charger, snacks, baby diapers if necessary and a small tool kit.

Summer storms can crop up quickly, so ADOT recommends drivers be prepared for changing weather conditions, including blowing dust. ADOT’s holiday weekend safe driving recommendations also include:

  • Never drive while impaired. Buckle up and obey speed limits.
  • Arrange for a designated driver or ride service if necessary.
  • Check your vehicle, including tire pressure.
  • Get some rest before traveling. Fatigue is a serious safety risk.
  • Avoid distractions. Don’t text while driving.
  • Don’t park in areas with grasses and brush. Hot vehicle components could start a fire.

Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov. ADOT also provides highway updates via its Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT.