Arizona’s first flex lanes are coming: Take a look at how they will operate

The first flex lanes on Arizona’s highway system are coming to Interstate 17 in 2025 as part of the I-17 Improvement Project from Anthem Way to Sunset Point. During the last year, crews have been busy blasting rock and moving earth in preparation for the construction of the new system.

For approximately 8 miles between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point, the two new flex lanes will run adjacent to the existing southbound lanes, separated by a concrete barrier. The mountainous terrain along this part of I-17 made adding new general purpose lanes in the northbound direction extremely difficult and costly. The addition of the flex lanes will safely and efficiently address traffic congestion during peak travel times, or if an unplanned incident creates delays.

The flex lanes will typically be open northbound Monday through Saturday and southbound on Sunday, but they will open as needed to whichever direction has the greatest need due to traffic and events and crashes that affect traffic flow.

ADOT just released this animated video that shows exactly how the flex lanes will work and all the safety features they include. Want more information about the flex lanes? Check out the new dedicated webpage!

In addition to the flex lanes, the I-17 Improvement Project will see 15 miles of roadway widening between Anthem Way and Black Canyon City and bridge improvements along the entire 23-mile project corridor between Anthem Way and Sunset Point. You can stay up to date on the project by visiting ImprovingI17.com.