The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced that there will be no full freeway or highway closures in the Phoenix area for construction or maintenance during the upcoming Labor Day weekend, from Friday afternoon through late Monday night. Despite this, ADOT advises drivers to remain cautious and allow extra travel time due to the potential for heavier traffic, disabled vehicles, crashes, or events such as wildfires.
ADOT recommends that motorists slow down in existing work zones and notes that the I-17 “flex lanes” between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point will be open throughout the holiday weekend.
Travelers are encouraged to prepare an emergency kit with items such as extra drinking water, a flashlight, blankets or towels, a fully charged cellphone with charger, and other essentials that could help in case of an unscheduled highway closure.
ADOT also reminds drivers to get adequate rest before driving and check their vehicle’s tire pressure and oil levels. All passengers should wear seat belts. The agency emphasizes safe driving by stating: “There’s no need for excessive speeding, tailgating or other unsafe driving behaviors, including distractions. Eyes up, phones down.”
For more information on safe driving recommendations and specific restrictions this weekend, ADOT provides a Weekend Travel Advisory map in PDF format on its website.
