ADOT Reducing Speed Limit On I-17 This Weekend

By Al Macias
Published: Friday, May 26, 2017 - 9:12am
(Photo courtesy of Kathleen Mirza)
Construction on system meant to detect wrong-way drivers along I-17 is set to begin in the fall.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has a message for drivers north of Phoenix on I-17 this weekend: slow down.

ADOT is trying to reduce accidents that can lead to miles long back-ups that last for hours.

I-17 north of Phoenix is notorious for accidents on holiday weekends. The problems often occur on the northbound lanes at the beginning of the weekend and southbound as tired drivers make their way home at the end of the weekend.

ADOT will lower speed limits by 10 mph Friday on northbound I-17 between New River and the Sunset Point Rest Area. Speed limits on the same stretch of southbound I-17 will be reduced by 10 mph on Memorial Day.

RELATED: Black Canyon City Residents Give Their Take On I-17 Traffic Tangles

Temporary signs will advise drivers of the lower speed limits

State troopers will be on the lookout for speeding, aggressive driving and driver impairment while also participating in DUI-saturation patrols.

Over the holiday weekend, ADOT will also station crews and equipment nearby to respond quickly to incidents.