Commuter Alert: New Loop 303 Construction Begins and Key Loop 101 Ramp Closures

Morning Commute Overview for Thursday, January 29, 2026

Phoenix commuters should prepare for a significant shift in traffic patterns this morning as a major new construction phase begins in the North Valley. While long-standing projects like the Interstate 10 Broadway Curve and the I-17 expansion north of Anthem have reached completion, new improvements funded by the voter-approved Proposition 479 are now getting underway. Expect a smooth flow on the major southern arteries, but stay alert for ramp closures and narrowing lanes in the Northwest and North Phoenix corridors.

Major Project Launch: Loop 303 and I-17 Interchange

The most significant update for today is the commencement of the Loop 303 Improvement Project at the I-17 interchange. Crews are beginning the first phase of a $129 million project to install direct freeway-to-freeway ramps connecting I-17 and Loop 303. Drivers in North Phoenix will also see activity as Loop 303 begins its widening to three lanes in each direction from I-17 west to 51st Avenue. While work is currently focused on the shoulders and utility prep, motorists should expect periodic overnight restrictions and narrowed lanes in this area throughout the week.

Loop 101 Ramp and Lane Restrictions

Commuters in the Northwest Valley face several active closures along the Loop 101 Agua Fria Freeway. Please note the following long-term restrictions that remain in effect today:

• The eastbound Loop 101 off-ramp at 35th Avenue is currently closed for reconstruction. This closure began earlier this week on January 26 and is expected to last for approximately two months.
• The eastbound Loop 101 on-ramp at 75th Avenue remains closed for ongoing work. This reconstruction is scheduled to continue through early March.
• In Scottsdale, the widening of the Pima Freeway (Loop 101) between Shea Boulevard and Princess Drive is nearing substantial completion. While the new lanes are mostly open, watch for final striping crews and shoulder work.

Valley Metro and Local Transit Updates

On the public transit front, the light rail system is operating on a standard weekday schedule. Following a pivotal Phoenix City Council vote on Tuesday, January 27, the city is shifting its future expansion focus. Plans for the Capitol Extension have been set aside in favor of prioritizing a new West Phoenix rail corridor along Indian School Road. While there is no construction impact on Indian School Road yet, commuters should be aware that the South Central Extension and Northwest Extension Phase II are fully operational and serving new daily riders.

Local Roadwork and Maintenance

Within the city center, utility work on 10th Avenue between Jefferson and Adams Streets is scheduled to wrap up its partial closure today, January 29. Furthermore, drivers should be aware that 75th Avenue near the Loop 101 bridge will face narrowing to a single lane in each direction starting this coming Sunday night for the addition of a third left-turn lane.