Expect lane restrictions and limited overnight closures of I-17
The Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to plan for traffic restrictions and overnight closures of Interstate 17 in Flagstaff as crews begin constructing a new bridge at the Airport Road (John Wesley Powell Boulevard) interchange, adjacent to the existing bridge. 
The existing bridge over I-17 will remain open to vehicle traffic until the new bridge is constructed. Bridge construction is scheduled to begin April 1, weather permitting.
Drivers should allow extra travel time while intermittent daytime lane restrictions are in place from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and from 5 a.m. to noon on Fridays. In addition, limited overnight closures of I-17 will be from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., Monday evenings through Friday mornings. The restrictions include:
- I-17 will be intermittently narrowed to one lane in each direction at the John Wesley Powell Boulevard interchange (milepost 337).
- When overnight closures of I-17 are in place, drivers will use the off- and on-ramps at the I-17/John Wesley Powell Boulevard interchange to exit and re-enter the interstate.
- Traffic on the Airport Road bridge will be prohibited during I-17 closures (with the exception of emergency vehicles).
- Pedestrian and bicycle access across the existing bridge will not be permitted during the construction project. Sheeps Crossing, part of the Flagstaff Urban Trails System, will serve as the detour. Follow posted signage in the area for the detour.
- On-site flaggers and signage will guide drivers through the work zone.
- No restrictions are expected to take place on the weekend or holidays.
- The speed limit will be reduced in the work zone.
The project is expected to be completed in fall 2024.
