The Arizona Department of Transportation has begun construction on a project to reconstruct the Cordes Junction traffic interchange at Interstate 17 and State Route 69. The project is scheduled to be completed by summer 2013.

Built in the early 1960s, the Cordes Junction traffic interchange now serves over 13,000 vehicles on an average day. In addition there are over 27,000 vehicles that travel on Interstate 17 at the junction of State Route 69 and ADOT predicts this volume of traffic will more than double by 2020. The current interchange design mixes local and through traffic, causing congestion and delays.

The outdated on and off-ramps will be removed and new ramps will be built to carry Prescott bound traffic over I-17.High speed traffic headed to Prescott will be separated from local traffic driving at slower speeds. The existing bridges carrying I-17 over Big Bug Creek will also be replaced.

The project, which will be constructed in four phases, will include construction of a new traffic interchange approximately 1/2 mile north of the existing interchange. The new interchange will provide access to the businesses at Cordes Junction, the Cordes Lakes community, and Arcosanti.

What to expect:

• Travelers will drive on well-marked temporary detours. Speeds through the construction zone will be reduced, so plan for extra travel time.
• Access to businesses will be maintained throughout construction.
• The construction team will coordinate closely with businesses and keep the traveling public and local community informed as construction progresses.