ARIZONA STRIP - Heavy traffic is expected along I-15 in the Virgin River Gorge this weekend, and the Arizona Department of Transportation is urging drivers to take it slow.
Between folks traveling to Las Vegas for a NASCAR event, or just getting away for the weekend, there will be a lot of cars on the already busy stretch of road.
Delays stem from the 2.8 million dollar construction project ADOT is doing on three of the bridges in the gorge. Motorist will be forced into one lane and down to 35 miles per hour at two different spots, bridges two and three (milepost 13) and bridge seven
“Even though there won’t be active construction this weekend, there will be a work zone in place,” said ADOT spokesperson Dustin Krugel. “All of the traffic is traveling on the northbound lanes at each of these locations, it’s one lane in each direction.”
Krugel said that’s why it’s critical motorist allow plenty of time. Close to 100,000 people are expected to attend the NASCAR event at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with the bulk of traffic hitting the gorge Friday night and Sunday.
Because of its rural area, there aren’t many alternative routes, the primary one being US Highway 91 through Santa Clara. The construction project will continue through the summer, and while Arizona Highway Patrol officials plan to schedule extra troopers to help manage traffic, the best advice is to be aware of the delays.
“Just try to have some patience,” Krugel said. “We’re trying to get the project done as soon as possible.”
Drivers can check current conditions in the Virgin River Gorge by calling 1-800-712-ROAD or clicking here. For more information about the bridge rehabilitation project, visit the Arizona Department of Transportation’s website.
