Heavy Traffic Expected in Tempe and Chandler as Spring Training and Ramp Closures Impact Sunday Commutes

Significant Freeway Restrictions in Chandler

Drivers in the East Valley should prepare for significant disruptions today, particularly near the Loop 101 and Loop 202 interchange. A major two-week closure is currently in effect for the southbound Loop 101 (Price Freeway) ramp to eastbound Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) in Chandler. This closure, part of a pavement repair and replacement project, requires drivers to seek alternate routes. Recommended detours include exiting the southbound Loop 101 at Chandler Boulevard or Price Road to access the eastbound Loop 202 on-ramps.

Additionally, eastbound Loop 202 is narrowed to only two lanes between Price Road and Arizona Avenue. This restriction is expected to remain in place until 5 p.m. this evening. Commuters should also note that the eastbound Loop 202 on-ramp at Arizona Avenue is fully closed during this window, adding further congestion to local surface streets as traffic seeks alternative entry points to the freeway.

Spring Training and Innings Festival Traffic Peaks

Traffic volume is expected to be exceptionally high today due to the kickoff of the Cactus League Spring Training season and the final day of the Innings Festival. In Tempe, heavy congestion is anticipated near Tempe Beach Park and the Arts Park for the Innings Festival, featuring major headliners like Mumford & Sons and Twenty One Pilots. Local drivers should avoid Rio Salado Parkway and Mill Avenue if they are not attending the event.

Baseball fans will be heading to stadiums across the Valley for 1:05 p.m. and 1:10 p.m. starts. High-traffic zones include:

• Scottsdale: Cubs vs. Giants at Scottsdale Stadium. Expect heavy delays on Drinkwater Boulevard and Scottsdale Road.
• Salt River Fields: Angels vs. Diamondbacks. Anticipate slow-moving traffic on the Loop 101 Pima Freeway near Indian Bend Road.
• Peoria: Dodgers vs. Padres at the Peoria Sports Complex. Congestion is likely on 83rd Avenue and Bell Road.
• West Valley: Games in Surprise, Goodyear, and Glendale will impact the Loop 303 and I-10 corridors throughout the afternoon.

Public Transportation and North Phoenix Updates

For those using public transit, Valley Metro has implemented several schedule adjustments for the Rail A Line and several bus routes, including Route 29 (Thomas Rd) and Route 72 (Scottsdale/Rural Rd). Commuters are encouraged to check the mobile app for real-time arrival data, especially near festival and stadium zones where bus diversions may occur.

In North Phoenix, the major lane restrictions on I-17 near Loop 303 that were in place yesterday have concluded as of 2 a.m. this morning. While all lanes are now open between Dixileta Drive and Dove Valley Road, drivers should remain alert for lingering construction equipment and work zone transitions as part of the ongoing Loop 303 improvement project.