The Arizona Department of Transportation has initiated a project to widen and improve the Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) from Interstate 17 in Phoenix east to Pima Road in Scottsdale. Improvements are needed to address growing traffic demands in the northeast Valley and relieve traffic congestion on the Loop 101 during the morning and evening peak travel periods.
Major elements of this project include:
• Adding one general purpose lane in each direction between I-17 and Pima Road
• Adding an auxiliary lane in each direction between 7th Street and Cave Creek Road
• Constructing a new overpass structure at the future Miller Road alignment
• Modifying freeway ramps and frontage road connections at 11 interchanges
Additional components include construction of noise or retaining walls where warranted, improvements to drainage and new rubberized asphalt resurfacing and pavement markings.
This project is utilizing the “design-build” (D/B) method of delivery to help reduce the overall project timeline. This delivery method differs from the more traditional “design-bid-build” approach in which the project is completed in two phases (designed and then constructed).
The D/B method involves pairing civil engineering firms with construction contractors to create “design builders” who work synergistically from beginning to end. This creates more opportunities for innovation and can reduce costs. The D/B method of delivery is most advantageous when transportation improvements are needed immediately to reduce high traffic volume or chronic congestion. To learn more about the D/B project delivery method, visit https://azdot.gov/node/7485
