I-10 Broadway Curve Clear for Wednesday Commute; Spring Training Traffic Alert

Commute Overview for Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Phoenix commuters are experiencing a significantly different drive this morning compared to years past. With the major overhaul of the I-10 Broadway Curve and the I-17 widening projects now fully complete, traffic flow through the region's core has stabilized. However, new regional expansion projects and the height of the Cactus League Spring Training season are creating localized pockets of congestion that drivers should prepare for throughout the day.
Major Freeway Updates and Active Construction
Following the completion of the I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project last year, all lanes remain open between the I-17 Split and Loop 202 Santan Freeway. Motorists are enjoying the full benefits of the collector-distributor roads and additional HOV lanes. Similarly, the I-17 corridor north of the Valley is now fully operational with its flex-lane system between Anthem Way and Sunset Point.
- Loop 303 Expansion: Construction is currently active in North Phoenix. Crews are working to add direct freeway-to-freeway ramps at the I-17 and Loop 303 interchange. Expect lane shifts and reduced speed limits on Loop 303 between I-17 and 51st Avenue.
- SR 51 (Piestewa Freeway): While major work is slated for the upcoming weekend, preparation for a diamond grinding pavement project between the Mini-Stack and Shea Boulevard may cause minor overnight lane restrictions. Commuters should keep an eye on signage for early closures starting late tonight.
- Loop 202 (Santan Freeway): In the Southeast Valley, widening work continues between Loop 101 and Val Vista Drive. While three lanes remain open during peak hours, allow extra time for merges near the Price Road interchange.
Cactus League Traffic Alert
As today is Wednesday, March 11, a full slate of afternoon Spring Training games is scheduled. Traffic is expected to peak between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM for arrivals, and again between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM for departures. Notable congestion zones include:
- Peoria Sports Complex: Expect delays on the Loop 101 (Agua Fria) near Bell Road for the Rockies vs. Mariners game at 1:10 PM.
- Salt River Fields: Heavy traffic is anticipated on the Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) near Indian Bend Road for the Athletics vs. Diamondbacks game at 1:10 PM.
- Sloan Park and Camelback Ranch: Regional congestion will impact the Loop 202 (Red Mountain) in Mesa and the Loop 101 in Glendale as the Cubs and White Sox host mid-day matchups.
Local Transit and Street Restrictions
Valley Metro reports that bus and light rail services are running on standard weekday schedules. Commuters using 16th Street should note a partial closure at the intersection of Buckeye Road for ongoing utility work, which is expected to persist through next week. Use 7th Street or 24th Street as north-south alternates to avoid the area.