New interchange being constructed at I-17 and Loop 303
For Immediate ReleaseContact: Jeff Sabato, MAG, 602-452-5073
Phoenix (February 26, 2026) – For more than 40 years, Maricopa County voters have chosen to invest in transportation, and the next phase of that investment is underway. Groundbreaking for the first regional transportation project funded under Proposition 479 is ready to begin. State, county and local government officials, along with transportation and regional business leaders, are gathering to celebrate the construction of a new system interchange at I-17 and Loop 303.
Key Facts:
- Project groundbreaking is set for Friday, March 6th
- Event will be held in the median between the eastbound and westbound lanes of the Loop 303, just west of the I-17.
- Ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m.
- Media arrival on-site by 9:15 a.m.
Why It Is Important:
Proposition 479, approved by Maricopa County voters on November 5, 2024, extends a dedicated half-cent sales tax for 20 years (through 2045) to fund regional transportation projects. It replaces the expiring Prop 400, generating an estimated $14.9 billion to $27.2 billion for freeway expansions, arterial street improvements, and public transit.
Proposition 479 will greatly impact how the greater Phoenix region moves, and when you look at the investments by the numbers, the future planned improvements are striking:
- 331 new freeway/highway lane miles
- 134 new HOV lane miles
- 1,000 new or improved arterial lane miles
- More than 28 miles of Bus Rapid Transit
The scheduled speakers include Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Maricopa Association of Governments Chair Alexis Hermosillo, and MAG Transportation Policy Committee Chair Jerry Weiers. Arizona Department of Transportation Director Jennifer Toth will emcee the event.
Live interview opportunities will be available from 9:30 to 9:50. Additional interview and B-roll opportunities will be available after the event concludes.
Media planning to attend the event are encouraged to contact [email protected] for directions on how to access the site.
The Maricopa Association of Governments is hosting the event along with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), Pulice Construction, and the Associated General Contractors – Arizona Chapter.