Arizona Department of Transportation

Arizona Department of Transportation is starting a project to replace pavement on 29 miles of Interstate 17 south of Flagstaff

When temperatures in the Valley heat up, a lot of Phoenix residents head for the high country.

But a project that begins Tuesday could make the journey home from Flagstaff last a little longer.

The Arizona Department of Transportation will repave 29 miles of Interstate 17 to repair winter damage and make the drive a little smoother.

The work on southbound lanes will extend from the outskirts of Flagstaff to the Munds Park area.

Traffic will be restricted to one lane in places as workers repave off ramps, shoulders and bridges.

The project will cost nearly $35 million and is expected to last through the summer of 2024.