The purpose of the study is to identify and evaluate alternative routes for the proposed Loop 303 extension between Interstate 10 (I-10) and the proposed State Route 30 (SR 30).

In November 2004, Maricopa County voters approved Proposition 400, which authorized extension of an existing half-cent sales tax to fund transportation improvements defined in the Regional Transportation Plan. This proposed extension of Loop 303 was identified as an element of the Regional Transportation Plan.

ADOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) are reinitiating design concept and environmental studies for the proposed Loop 303 extension. The original study was placed on hold in 2009 due to uncertain funding levels for the Regional Transportation Plan and questions concerning the location of the system interchange between Loop 303 and SR 30.

An Environmental Assessment (EA) and Design Concept Report (DCR) are underway to address possible freeway improvements. Near-term improvements are planned to provide the south directional ramps from I-10 to Loop 303. The proposed ultimate improvements may include construction of four general-purpose lanes and one high-occupancy vehicle lane in each direction for Loop 303 between I-10 and SR 30, and system interchange between Loop 303 and SR 30 in the vicinity of Maricopa County Route 85.

A larger view is available.

	Draft EA/DCR	Fall 2013
	Public Hearing	Winter 2013/2014
	Final EA/DCR	Spring 2014
	I-10/Loop 303 TI Design (Phase 2)	Fiscal Year 2014
	Loop 303 Design, SR 30 to Van Buren Street	Fiscal Year 2019

Loop 303 south of I-10 is in the planning phase of ADOT's project development process. ADOT is currently evaluating potential corridors with the establishment of general locations and basic characteristics (number of lanes, interchanges, etc.). Associated activities include environmental studies (air quality, noise, cultural resources, etc.), identification and evaluation of alternatives, general cost estimates, partnering with public and private stakeholders, and the determination of feasibility to move to the design phase.

The design of a roadway involves several phases of detailed engineering and technical review and interim levels of approval. The final design of the roadway is represented in plans and specifications that construction contractors use to prepare construction bids.

Road construction is based on the approved design. As the construction process advances, changes may occur that are influenced by a variety of factors. ADOT continually looks for ways to improve the construction process for maximum efficiency and minimal community impact.

• Construction of Loop 303 between I-10 and Van Buren Street is anticipated to begin in 2016 and conclude in 2017, per the ADOT Five-Year Program.
• Construction of Loop 303 between Van Buren Street and SR 30 is anticipated to begin in 2023 and conclude in 2024, per the Regional Transportation Plan.