Intermittent one-hour closures expected on I-17 in both directions between midnight and 3 a.m.

Verde Valley AZ (June 13, 2013) – Motorists traveling on Interstate 17 south of Camp Verde between midnight and 3 a.m. during the next three weeks need to plan ahead and allow extra travel time due to overnight construction on a climbing lane project, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Overnight work will require a pair of one-hour closures in both directions on I-17 as crews continue blasting rock cuts along the highway. Overnight closures will occur in the early morning hours tomorrow, Thursday, June 13, and then intermittently for the next three weeks on Monday through Thursday.

The first closure will be from midnight to 1 a.m. and the second closure between 2 a.m. to 3 a.m. Traffic on northbound I-17 will be stopped at State Route 169 and southbound I-17 traffic will be stopped at General Crook Trail until the area is reopened.

In addition to the full closures, drivers can expect single-lane restrictions in both directions through the work zone between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Monday night through Friday morning. Drivers on northbound I-17 should be alerted to a pilot car in the work zone to safely guide traffic between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. nightly.

Also, a site in the median of I-17 south of State Route 169 has been designated to use for excess materials removed from the project, which will require I-17 to be narrowed overnight to one lane in each direction at mileposts 276-277 as crews enter and exit the highway between 8 p.m. and noon Monday through Friday.

The work zone will be clearly marked by temporary barricades and signage. ADOT advises drivers to allow additional time to reach their destinations and to proceed through the work zone with caution, comply with the reduced speed limit, and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule. To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.