The purpose of this study is to prepare a design concept report and environmental documentation for improvements to the segment of Interstate 17 between the New River Traffic Interchange (TI) (MP 232) and the Cordes Junction TI (MP 262+), a length of approximately 30 miles. This section of I-17, designated the "Arizona Veteran's Highway" in 2004, currently consists of two lanes in each direction, traversing rolling terrain in the southern and northern segments and mountainous terrain in the middle of the project.
I-17 is part of the National Highway System and connects I-10 with I-40, two of the nation's principal east-west interstate highways. I-17 also provides the major connection between Phoenix and communities in northern Arizona. This project will explore various means of adding capacity to I-17.
The study segment is located in a rural area of Maricopa and Yavapai counties. The Agua Fria National Monument, administered by the Bureau of Land Management, is located immediately east of the I-17 right-of-way from approximately MP 245 to MP 260.
