Crews are working to complete a 23-mile improvement project along Interstate 17 between Anthem Way and Sunset point by the end of the year, and the latest step in the effort is a temporary traffic shift beginning at Black Canyon City.

Northbound traffic has shifted into the two newly constructed flex lanes that run next to the two southbound lanes of I-17, according to a release from the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The temporary traffic shift is necessary while crews complete work on the existing northbound general purpose lanes between Coldwater Road and Sunset Point. “This work also includes bridge work at Bumble Bee Road and other important work for the eight-mile flex lane corridor,” the release stated.

“The newly constructed lanes are not yet operating as ‘flex lanes.’ The two flex lanes will be used only as a detour route to move northbound I-17 traffic while the two existing northbound general purpose lanes are closed for ongoing work.” 

Drivers will transition from the regular northbound lanes at Coldwater Road in Black Canyon City and use the newly constructed crossover lanes to enter the two new flex lanes. Drivers will continue on the flex lanes for approximately eight miles and will exit via another set of crossover lanes at Sunset Point to return to the northbound general purpose lanes, according to ADOT.

Drivers will not be able to access the northbound Bumble Bee Road exit, which will be closed. Bumble Bee Road under northbound I-17 will also be closed to traffic. Access for emergency responders will be maintained throughout the traffic shift and closures, transportation officials said.

Southbound I-17 traffic remains the same on the two general purpose lanes during the northbound traffic shift.

The northbound detour route through the flex lanes is expected to last several weeks.