Lane Restrictions at Grand and 35th Ave; Significant Transit Changes for Phoenix Commuters
Traffic Alert: Utility Work and Ramp Closures
Commuters traveling through the West Valley should prepare for new lane restrictions starting this morning, Tuesday, January 27. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced utility work at the busy intersection of Grand Avenue, 35th Avenue, and Indian School Road. Starting at 9:00 a.m. today, northbound 35th Avenue will be narrowed to only two through lanes at the intersection. While right turns onto Indian School Road will remain permitted, the reduction in through-lane capacity is expected to cause significant stacking and delays during the midday hours. These restrictions are currently scheduled to remain in place through Wednesday afternoon.
Additionally, the long-term closure of the eastbound Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway) on-ramp at 75th Avenue continues to impact local traffic. This closure is part of the ongoing Loop 101 widening project between 75th Avenue and Interstate 17. The ramp is expected to remain closed for approximately 60 days. Drivers who typically use this entry point are advised to detour to the 67th Avenue or 83rd Avenue on-ramps to avoid frustration.
Valley Metro Service and Transit Updates
This morning marks the first full Tuesday commute under the significant Valley Metro service changes that officially went into effect yesterday, Monday, January 26. These updates include major schedule adjustments and route modifications across the region. Notable routes with revised schedules include:
- Route 29 (Thomas Road) and Route 40 (Main Street)
- Route 72 (Scottsdale Road/Rural Road)
- Route 170 (Bell Road) and Route 186 (Union Hills Drive)
- Express routes including 514 (Scottsdale), 562 (Goodyear), and 571 (Surprise)
Commuters using public transit are strongly encouraged to verify their departure times, as many routes have seen schedule adjustments to better align with the Valley Metro Rail. Furthermore, the Phoenix City Council will hold a policy meeting today at 2:30 p.m. to discuss the voter-approved light rail expansion along the I-10 and Capitol Extension corridors.
Major Freeway Infrastructure Projects
Large-scale construction remains a primary factor for Valley drivers this month. On the Loop 101 Pima Freeway in Scottsdale, work continues on the widening project between Shea Boulevard and Princess Drive. While substantial completion is targeted for early 2026, motorists should watch for crews performing finishing work on the shoulders and interchanges.
In the North Valley, the Loop 303 improvement project between I-17 and 51st Avenue is gaining momentum. This project is adding direct freeway-to-freeway ramps at the I-17/Loop 303 interchange. Drivers should anticipate intermittent night and weekend restrictions in this area as crews widen the freeway to three lanes in each direction. Finally, following a tragic head-on collision involving a city bus near 51st Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road yesterday, commuters are urged to exercise extreme caution and maintain focus when traveling through the southwest sector of the city.