Phoenix Traffic Alert: Major Road Closures and Event Congestion April 10-13

Metro Phoenix residents and visitors should prepare for significant traffic delays this weekend, April 10 through 13. A combination of high-profile events and essential infrastructure projects has created a perfect storm for congestion across the Valley. From major freeway shutdowns to crowded city streets, getting around will require extra time and careful planning.

Major Freeway Closures and Restrictions

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has scheduled several critical pavement and widening projects that will restrict flow on primary arteries.

Southbound State Route 51

Southbound SR 51 will be closed between Indian School Road and Interstate 10 from 9 p.m. Friday, April 10, until 5 a.m. Monday, April 13. This closure is necessary for surface asphalt removal as part of a pavement improvement project.

• Closed On-Ramps: Glendale Avenue, Bethany Home Road, and Highland Avenue.
• Additional Restriction: The Westbound I-10 HOV ramp to northbound SR 51 is also closed.
• Recommended Detours: Drivers should use southbound I-17 as an alternate route to reach downtown Phoenix and Sky Harbor Airport. Those exiting at Indian School Road can detour south via 7th or 24th streets.

I-17 and Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway)

A widening project will impact the connection between I-17 and the Loop 101. Northbound and southbound I-17 ramps to westbound Loop 101 will be closed from 10 p.m. Friday, April 10, to 5 a.m. Monday, April 13.

• Closed On-Ramp: Westbound Loop 101 on-ramp at 27th Avenue.
• Lane Restrictions: Westbound Loop 101 will be narrowed to a single lane between I-17 and 51st Avenue from 9 p.m. Friday to 8 a.m. Saturday, April 11.
• Recommended Detours: Use westbound Union Hills Drive to 51st Avenue to access westbound Loop 101.

Eastbound I-10

Pavement maintenance will cause a total closure of Eastbound I-10 at Perryville Road from 4 a.m. To 6 p.m. Saturday, April 11.

• Closed On-Ramps: Verrado Way and Jackrabbit Trail.
• Recommended Detours: Traffic will be detoured using the off- and on-ramps at Perryville Road. Alternatively, drivers can exit before the closure and use eastbound Roosevelt Street or McDowell Road.

Other Notable Closures

Lindsay Road will be closed in both directions at the Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) starting at 10 p.m. Friday.

Event-Driven Traffic Warnings

Beyond construction, several major Valley events will drive heavy traffic to specific hubs this weekend:

• Arizona Bike Week: Expect increased motorcycle traffic and congestion in Scottsdale from April 10 through 12.
• Pat’s Run: The 22nd annual run takes place April 11, which will significantly impact local roadways.
• 2nd Sundays: Shopping and crowds around Mill Avenue in Tempe will peak on April 12.
• Maricopa County Fair: Expect heavy traffic near the fairgrounds in Phoenix throughout the weekend.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I uncover real-time traffic updates?

The most accurate information is provided by ADOT via the AZ511 website, the official az511 mobile app, or by dialing 511 on your phone.

What is the best way to get to Sky Harbor Airport this weekend?

Because of the southbound SR 51 closure, travelers are encouraged to use southbound I-17 as their primary alternate route to reach the airport and downtown Phoenix.

Are these closure times guaranteed?

No. According to ADOT, restriction schedules are subject to change due to inclement weather or other unforeseen factors.

Final Travel Advice

With multiple freeway closures and high-attendance events coinciding, the standard commute times won’t apply this weekend. Whether you’re heading to the Maricopa County Fair or simply crossing the Valley, leave early and stay flexible. Check your route on AZ511 before heading out to avoid unnecessary delays.