SignalsAZ.com Prescott News Podcast - Flex Lanes: Arizona's Innovative Solution to Traffic Congestion

Starting point is 00:00:00 Text to Speech Audio articles made possible by Cast 11 Talking Glass Media. Northern Arizona drivers can look forward to a significant improvement in traffic flow on Interstate 17, I-17, as the Arizona Department of Transportation, ADOT, progresses with the construction of the state's first flex lanes. This innovative project aims to address the notorious congestion issues on the 23-mile stretch between Anthem Way and sunset point. What are flex lanes? Flex lanes are a cutting-edge traffic management tool designed to accommodate fluctuating traffic in areas where permanent road expansion is difficult or costly, like mountainous terrain. Unlike traditional lanes, flex lanes are reversible, meaning traffic

Starting point is 00:00:42 can flow in either direction depending on the time of day or traffic conditions. On I-17, two flex lanes are being built adjacent to the existing southbound lanes and will be separated by a concrete barrier. These lanes will typically be open to northbound traffic from Monday through Saturday, when outbound travel from the Phoenix area is heaviest. On Sundays, when many travelers return to the city, the lanes will serve southbound traffic. What makes flex lanes especially valuable is their real-time adaptability. A dot will use traffic data, video monitoring, and predictive analytics to decide which direction the lanes should operate. Electronic signs and automated swing gates will direct drivers accordingly, ensuring safe and efficient use of the lanes. In emergencies,

Starting point is 00:01:24 such as wildfires or road closures, the flex lanes can be quickly reconfigured to help move along traffic or provide critical access. Project details and timeline. The I-17 improvement project encompasses. Widening 15 miles of roadway between Anthem Way and Black Canyon City. Constructing approximately 8 miles of flex lanes between Black Canyon City and sunset point. Replacing two bridges, widening 10 others, and enhancing safety features throughout the corridor. Construction began in September 2022 and is expected to be completed by 2025. The total cost of the project has risen to $522 million, exceeding the initial bid price of $446 million

Starting point is 00:02:07 due to factors like federal environmental requirement changes and design modifications. To ensure the safe operation of the flex lanes, ADOT is installing automated swing gates and vehicle arresting barriers to prevent wrongway entries, along with dynamic signage and concrete barriers that separate the reversible lanes from regular traffic. A network of cameras and sensors will allow real-time monitoring and management for Addof's central traffic operation center. The flex lanes will not be told, and the speed limit will be set at 65 miles per hour. National context and expected benefits. Flex lane systems like this are not new to the U.S., and their success elsewhere suggests they'll have a significant impact on I-17. In Seattle, for instance, flex lanes on I-5 have reduced

Starting point is 00:02:53 travel time during rush hours, while the reversible express lanes in Tampa have helped manage beach traffic during weekends and holidays. Other cities that have successfully implemented flex lanes include I-394 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, I-25 in Denver, Colorado, SR-75 in San Diego, California, I-35 in Dallas, Texas. These systems have demonstrated effectiveness and reducing congestion and improving traffic flow during peak travel times. Looking ahead. As the I-17 improvement project progresses, motorists can anticipate a more efficient and safer travel experience between the Phoenix metropolitan area and northern Arizona destinations. A-DOT encourages drivers to stay informed about construction updates and to exercise caution in work zones. For more information and real-time updates,

Starting point is 00:03:44 visit Improvinge17.com. Catch up with more local news stories on signalsaz.com. Subscribe and be the F1 RSD 2 No.

SignalsAZ.com Prescott News Podcast - Flex Lanes: Arizona's Innovative Solution to Traffic Congestion

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