Take Advantage of Public Input Opportunities for East Valley Freeways
For Immediate ReleaseContact: Jeff Sabato, MAG, 602-452-5073
Phoenix (November 10, 2026) – East Valley residents have two upcoming opportunities to help shape the region's transportation future. Public input is needed on the Loop 101 and Loop 202 Bottleneck Study, and the US 60 East Corridor Study. The aim of both is to improve safety by alleviating congestion, bottlenecks, and backups, and to improve travel through these areas.
Opportunity #1: Loop 101 and Loop 202 Bottleneck Study
The study area includes Loop 101 (Price Freeway) from US 60 to McKellips Road and Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway) from Priest Drive to Dobson Road. The area is a vital transportation route for the region, and the study seeks to reduce traffic delays and make commutes safer. The study, which began in April 2025, is expected to provide a final report in spring 2027.
At the open house, the study team will present alternatives that address various issues experienced in the corridor.
Public Open House:
- Tuesday, November 17
- 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- Escalante Multi-Generational Center, 2150 E Orange St., Tempe, AZ 85281
Why It Is Important:
Existing issues in the area include:
- Weaving and lane changes increase the potential for collisions
- Crashes occur regularly within the study area
- Existing bottleneck areas make travel times unpredictable
MAG is conducting the study in partnership with Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Maricopa County, the Federal Highway Administration and ADOT.
Opportunity #2: US 60 East Corridor Study
The study area is US 60 from Ironwood Drive to Kings Ranch Road and seeks to create a shared vision for the corridor’s future. This is the beginning of the study process, and it will examine how the corridor functions today to recommend ways to improve safety and keep traffic moving. Residents, visitors, and businesses can share input at a November 18 open house or through an online survey.
Public Open House:
- Wednesday, November 18
- 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- Apache Junction Multi-Generational Center, 1035 N. Idaho Road, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Why It Is Important:
Existing issues in the area include:
- Limited regional connectivity between Apache Junction, Queen Creek, and San Tan Valley increases traffic volume on Ironwood Drive.
- US 60 is the only roadway in and out of Gold Canyon.
- The Renaissance Festival, held between January and March during peak visitor season, results in significant congestion as far west as Goldfield Road.