Central Avenue bridge replacement could impact I-17 traffic for over a year

PHOENIX – Drivers should expect restrictions and delays on Interstate 17 south of downtown Phoenix for the next year-plus because of a major bridge replacement project, authorities said.

The Arizona Department of Transportation said work on the I-17 bridge over Central Avenue will begin this weekend. The $13.5 million project is scheduled to be completed in fall of 2021.

The first detour will be in effect from 10 p.m. Friday until 3 a.m. Sunday, with southbound I-17 closing at Seventh Avenue.

Both I-10 ramps to southbound I-17 and the southbound I-17 on-ramps at Grant Street, 19th Avenue and Seventh Avenue will be closed at the same time.

Southbound traffic that exits I-17 at Seventh Avenue will be able to stay on the service road and return to the freeway at Seventh Street.

Northbound I-17 will then be closed from the split interchange near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport through Seventh Avenue from 3 a.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday.

Traffic can detour through downtown on I-10 in both directions to avoid the closures, as well as other restrictions over the course of the project.

I-17 will reduced to two lanes in each direction, with work zones, after this weekend.

The existing bridge was built in 1962. The replacement will increase clearance for commercial trucks and the future Valley Metro Central Avenue light rail line.

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