Slow drive: ASU football, rush hour to snarl Tempe traffic on Thursday

PHOENIX — Rush-hour traffic in downtown Tempe is going to be worse than usual Thursday — Arizona State has a home football game.

The Sun Devils are scheduled to kickoff at 7:30 p.m. against the University of Utah, but with tailgating parking lots open hours beforehand, traffic will begin to get tricky fast.

Roads will likely begin getting clogged about 4 p.m., just about the usual time rush hour begins.

The Arizona Department of Transportation recommended commuters who normally take the Loop 202 home may want to consider using US 60 instead to avoid the north Tempe area.

Those heading to Scottsdale should consider taking the Loop 101 or State Route 51.

Multiple road closures will be in place around Sun Devil Stadium, which will only add to some drivers’ frustrations.

Those going to the game may want to consider alternate means of transportation to avoid the clogged roadways.

The city said it extends free Orbit shuttle service — which goes into nearby neighborhoods — hours until midnight on game days. It also encourages fans to park at one of three park-and-ride locations in Tempe and take the light rail to Sun Devil Stadium.

Schedules for public transportation are available on Valley Metro’s website.

Several bus routes will also be affected by the game. Routes 30 westbound and 72 in both directions will be detoured to avoid heavy traffic areas.

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