Good news for anyone commuting between the east and west valleys! The loop 202 (South Mountain Freeway) is undergoing changes that will add 22 miles of freeway to our current transportation system. This will ease traffic in the existing freeway corridors and local streets.
This addition will connect the east and west valleys through southwest Phoenix. Our new freeway will consist of four segments, these being Pecos, Center, Salt River, and I-10 Papago. The Pecos segment will begin at the existing I-10 and Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) interchange. This new freeway will replace the current Pecos Road connection and provide an extension of Loop 202 to the west.
The South Mountain freeway will connect to I-10 near 59th Avenue with a new freeway to freeway system interchange. This interchange allows eastbound and westbound motorists on I-10 to connect to the freeway. In addition, HOV traffic from the South Mountain freeway will be able to connect directly to HOV lanes along I-10 to and from downtown Phoenix.
Like other valley freeways, this expansion will have a rolling profile. This means certain areas will be elevated, at grade, or partially depressed in various locations, maintaining existing drainage flows to the Gila River Indian Community. Landscaping and art will be reflective of Arizona’s natural desert landscape, and noise walls will protect neighboring communities from freeway noise.
This change is sure to provide much-needed relief to anyone who currently commutes between the east and west valleys. Keep yourself up-to-date by checking out the official project page on azdot.gov!
