Speed limit on portion of Interstate 17 in Phoenix to be raised to 65 mph
Oct 25, 2023, 4:15 AM | Updated: 8:09 am
The speed limit on a stretch of Interstate 17 in Phoenix will be increased following an independent study and public input. (Arizona Department of Transportation Photo)
(Arizona Department of Transportation Photo)
PHOENIX — The speed limit on a stretch of Interstate 17 in Phoenix will be upped to 65 mph following an independent study and public input, the Arizona Department of Transportation announced Tuesday.
About 75% of the 11,000 people who submitted feedback to ADOT supported raising the limit from 55 mph on the almost 9-mile stretch between Peoria Avenue and the Interstate 10 Split interchange.
ADOT is expected to remove the 55 mph signs and make the change by the end of October.
Why did ADOT decide to increase the I-17 speed limit?
Strong public support and the study were drivers in the change, according to ADOT.
The study found that a 65 mph speed limit within that stretch of I-17 works better because most drivers typically go around that speed and find it reasonable.
The average speeds that motorists are traveling, crash history, traffic volumes and roadway design were all factored into the study, according to ADOT.
A new state law also calls for a minimum of a 65 mph speed limit on any interstate highway in counties with a population of at least 3 million, which Maricopa County is.
All metro Phoenix interstate highways will have 65 mph limits after the change is made.
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