By Jennifer N. Conrad, Managing Editor |
The Broadway Curve, one of Arizona’s most heavily traveled freeway corridors, has entered a new phase. What was once a high-congestion zone on Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tempe is now a more streamlined, efficient system thanks to strategic infrastructure enhancements completed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).
On February 12, 2025, new general-purpose lanes opened from I-17 near Sky Harbor Airport to Baseline Road eastbound, and from US 60 to 32nd Street westbound. These additions significantly reduced bottlenecks and improved flow across the corridor. Then, on April 10, high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes opened between I-17 and US 60, offering carpoolers and transit users greater efficiency. Additionally, a new flyover bridge now directs westbound I-10 traffic to northbound SR 143, and southbound SR 143 to eastbound I-10—minimizing lane-changing conflicts and improving ramp access.
“A very complicated project that was well managed and now making a huge improvement in traffic flow,” said Jack Sellers, Past Chair of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and former State Transportation Board Chair.
These enhancements were part of a comprehensive, multi-year construction effort launched in fall 2021. Despite temporary delays from spring 2023 flooding, crews maintained progress and met key milestones. The project includes six general-purpose lanes in each direction, continuous HOV lanes, new collector-distributor roads to ease merging, and improved ramp connections.
The transformation is designed to meet long-term demand. Daily traffic along this corridor is projected to grow from 300,000 to 375,000 vehicles by 2040—a 25% increase. The upgrades are expected to save commuters a combined 2.5 million hours annually, translating into an economic impact of approximately $130 million per year. Added features include digital signage for real-time traffic updates, an expanded pedestrian bridge, and bicycle access to support multimodal transportation goals.
Ongoing work continues in the final phases of the project. From April 11 to April 14, southbound SR 143 will close for overhead sign installation. The eastbound I-10 on-ramp at 24th Street is also scheduled to close temporarily for paving. Final components are expected to be completed by late spring 2025. ADOT continues to provide real-time updates through TheCurve app and the project website to minimize commuter disruption.
The Broadway Curve project represents the largest urban freeway reconstruction effort in Arizona history. In partnership with local governments, transportation agencies, and private contractors, ADOT has executed a modern solution for a vital corridor in Maricopa County. The completed infrastructure will not only improve current mobility but will support the region’s continued growth and economic development.
