I-17 Flex Lanes Are Here — Here’s What You Need to Know
🚧 I-17 Flex Lanes Are Here — Here’s What You Need to Know
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has introduced the state's first flex lanes on an 8-mile stretch of I-17 between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point. These lanes are designed to alleviate congestion by carrying one direction of traffic at a time, depending on peak travel needs. (Arizona Department of Transportation, improvingi17.com)
Typically, the flex lanes operate northbound Monday through Saturday and southbound on Sundays. However, they can be adjusted based on real-time traffic conditions. (Arizona Department of Transportation)
Whats happening currently:
🚗 Understanding the I-17 Flex Lanes and Northbound Refinishing
Flex Lanes Overview:
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has introduced an innovative flex lane system on an 8-mile stretch of I-17 between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point. These lanes are designed to carry traffic in one direction at a time, depending on peak travel needs. Typically, the flex lanes are open to northbound traffic from Monday through Saturday and to southbound traffic on Sundays. This dynamic system aims to alleviate congestion during peak travel times and in response to incidents that cause delays. (Arizona Department of Transportation, Arizona Department of Transportation, improvingi17.com)
Current Use of Flex Lanes:
As of May 5, 2025, northbound traffic has been temporarily shifted into the newly constructed flex lanes. This detour allows crews to complete work on the existing northbound general-purpose lanes, including bridge work at Bumble Bee Road and other essential tasks within the flex lane corridor. During this period, the flex lanes are not operating in their intended reversible mode but are serving as a detour route for northbound traffic. (Arizona Department of Transportation)
Refinishing of Northbound Lanes:
The ongoing refinishing of the northbound lanes involves paving, striping, and other necessary work to enhance the roadway's condition. This process is part of the broader I-17 Improvement Project, which includes adding a third lane in each direction between Anthem Way and Black Canyon City to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow. (Arizona Department of Transportation)
✅ Anticipated Benefits Once All Lanes Are Open
Upon completion of the refinishing work and the full implementation of the flex lane system, drivers can expect:
Improved Traffic Flow: The additional lanes and dynamic flex lane system are designed to reduce congestion, particularly during peak travel times.(Arizona Department of Transportation)
Enhanced Safety: The project includes safety features such as automated swinging arm gates, vehicle arresting barriers, concrete barriers, steel gates, dynamic messaging signs, and cameras to monitor and control traffic flow effectively. (improvingi17.com)
Reduced Travel Times: By addressing bottlenecks and providing additional capacity, the improvements aim to shorten travel times for motorists.
For real-time updates on traffic conditions and lane statuses, you can visit az511.gov or download the AZ511 app.(Arizona Department of Transportation)
🗺️ Accessing Chilleens on 17 During Construction
With the flex lanes starting at Coldwater Road, the usual North exit to Chilleens on 17 is unaffected completely. You can still get to us no problem! If you are using the flex lanes going Southbound on a Sunday you will have to use the second Black Canyon City Exit (maps can direct you as well) (Arizona Department of Transportation)
🍽️ Why the Extra Mile is Worth It
At Chilleens on 17, we offer:
Delicious BBQ and Homestyle Meals: Perfect for satisfying your hunger during your journey.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Take a break from the road in our comfortable dining area.
Convenient Location: Situated just off I-17, we're an ideal pit stop before you continue your trip.
📍 Visit Us:
Chilleens on 17
33150 S Coldwater Rd
Black Canyon City, AZ 85324
📞 (623) 374-5552
📧 Chilleenson17@gmail.com
🌐 www.chilleenson17.com
