Arizona is moving forward with an ambitious plan to improve its highway infrastructure, with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) proposing over $1 billion for widening major roadways across the state. 

As part of a larger five-year construction plan valued at more than $12 billion, these projects aim to ease congestion, improve safety, and support economic growth by upgrading key transportation routes.

The proposal includes several major highway widening projects, with Interstate 10 (I-10) receiving the largest portion of the funding. The plan calls for:

• $137 million to widen I-10 south of Phoenix, from the Gila River Bridge to Gas Line Road.
• $290 million to expand I-10 between Alvernon Way and Valencia Road in Pima County.
• $600 million for widening I-10 from Kino to Country Club in Pima County.
• $110 million to expand State Route 260 east of Payson (Lion Springs segment).
• $68 million to widen US 93 north of Wickenburg (Vista Royale segment).
• $50 million to expand US 93 at Big Jim Wash, between Wickenburg and Wikieup.
• $66 million to replace the Colorado River Bridge on I-10 at the California border, a joint effort with CalTrans.
• $240 million to expand I-17 from Sunset Point to State Route 69.
• $62 million for a new land port of entry road and facility in Douglas.

In addition to these widening projects, significant funding will be allocated to pavement improvements across various highways.

Arizona has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, particularly in areas surrounding Phoenix and Tucson. Increased traffic on major highways has led to congestion, longer travel times, and concerns about road safety. The expansion of key highways is expected to alleviate these issues by increasing capacity and improving traffic flow.

Interstate 10, which connects Phoenix and Tucson, has long been one of the most heavily traveled routes in the state. The proposed widening projects aim to accommodate growing demand and reduce bottlenecks in high-traffic areas.

US 93, another key route, serves as the primary connection between Phoenix and Las Vegas. Widening sections of this highway will not only improve traffic movement but also make room for safety on a road that has seen frequent accidents due to heavy truck traffic and limited passing opportunities.

ADOT has outlined multiple sources of funding for these projects, including federal and state transportation funds, diesel fuel taxes, and voter-approved sales tax revenue. In Maricopa County, the passage of Proposition 479- which extends a local sales tax for transportation- will help fund regional improvements.

The plan is designed to prioritize projects based on traffic needs, safety concerns, and overall economic impact. While some of the projects are expected to begin soon, others will be completed over the next few years as funding becomes available.

Before finalizing the five-year plan, ADOT is seeking public feedback. Arizona residents have until May 23 to share their opinions and concerns about the proposed projects. The final decision will be made by the State Transportation Board, which is scheduled to review and approve the plan during a meeting on June 20.

Public engagement is a key part of the planning process, as it allows residents to voice their thoughts on the impact of construction, potential alternatives, and the long-term benefits of infrastructure improvements.

Arizona’s investment in highway expansion is expected to have significant long-term benefits for commuters, businesses, and the state’s economy. By improving major transportation corridors, the state plans to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, and accommodate continued population growth.

If approved, the plan will mark a major step in modernizing Arizona’s highways and ensuring they can meet the demands of the future. With billions of dollars set to be invested in road infrastructure, Arizona is preparing for the next chapter in its transportation development.