ADOT to close Laveen intersection; motorists need to seek alternate route
Nov 27, 2017, 4:22 AM | Updated: 12:41 pm
(Arizona Department of Transportation)
PHOENIX — Valley motorists who travel through the Laveen area may need to use alternate routes Monday as construction will shut down a nearby intersection through March, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Last week, ADOT announced the intersection of 59th and Southern avenues will be completely closed to make way for construction of the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway.
In a press release, ADOT said traffic will need to detour to either Broadway or Baseline roads between 51st and 67th avenues. The road closure will allow crews to construct an interchange that will include a 125 feet tall bridge over the freeway. About 10,000 vehicles pass through the intersection every day, ADOT said.
Construction crews are expected to install underground utilities and drainage structures and also pave eastbound lanes on Southern Avenue.
The press release said Southern Avenue will eventually be widened in the two-phase project. Paving the roadway will allow crews to complete the northern half of the interchange without an extended closure.
Last month, ADOT closed the intersection of 59th Avenue and Elliot Road to allow crews to begin on an overpass on Elliot Road.
The South Mountain Freeway is geared to be an alternate route to Interstate 10 and give motorists a direct pathway between the East Valley and the West Valley.
The freeway is scheduled to open in 2019.