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

Verde Valley AZ (May 8, 2013) – Motorists traveling on Interstate 17 south of Camp Verde late Thursday night into early Friday morning, May 9-10, 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 two, one-hour closures in both directions of I-17 as crews prepare for blasting rock cuts along the highway.

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 will be stopped at General Crook Trail until the area is reopened.

In addition to the full closures, drivers can expect single-lane restrictions on southbound I-17 through the work zone between mileposts 280-287 for the next three months overnight between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Monday through Friday.

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.

The $11.8 million project will add a third traffic lane in two different areas along southbound I-17 to help move traffic climbing along Copper Canyon Hill near Camp Verde (mileposts 280-287). One lane is being built between the State Route 260 and General Crook Trail traffic interchanges to help allow larger vehicles gain speed before merging while also providing more room for passenger vehicles traveling past slower traffic.

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.