Expect heavy traffic along I-10, Loop 101 in West Valley for Sunday events

PHOENIX – Drivers should expect heavier traffic along freeway routes in the West Valley Sunday afternoon and evening as fans head to and from the NASCAR race at Phoenix International Raceway and the Arizona Cardinals game against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium.

The heaviest traffic is expected on Interstate 10 and Loop 101 starting about 5 p.m., which is the estimated time for the race and the Cardinals game to conclude.

Drivers are encouraged to allow plenty of extra time for travel on I-10 and on Loop 101 and to get to the events well ahead of their scheduled start times. The Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. at PIR and the Cardinals-Rams game is set to kick off at 2:25 p.m.

Heavy traffic is expected again once the football game and race end at approximately 5 p.m.

Here are some travel tips for fans using I-10 and Loop 101 on Sunday:

• Arrive early and allow for extra travel time before and after Sunday’s events.
• NASCAR fans should remember that their parking pass determines which I-10 exits to use to get to PIR. Fans without passes must exit at Litchfield Road or Estrella Parkway.
• Due to heavier traffic, race fans should consider using the park & ride lot at the Ak-Chin Pavilion, two blocks north of I-10 on 83rd Avenue. A shuttle will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., free of charge to fans with PIR-issued parking passes and $7 for others.
• Drivers leaving University of Phoenix Stadium are advised to head north on Loop 101 to avoid anticipated heavy traffic and delays on southbound Loop 101 and I-10.

State highway conditions are available via ADOT's Travel Information site at az511.gov or by calling 5-1-1.