PRESCOTT – The Arizona Department of Transportation was continuing its excavation project along I-17 Friday night by conducting a test blast at Black Canyon Hill at 9 p.m.
The blasting was expected to create safer slopes and reduce the danger of rocks falling onto the roadway.
The blasting was to take place north of the Bumblebee turnoff and require a short-term closure of southbound I-17 on Black Canyon Hill between Phoenix and Sunset Point for about 30 minutes.
After the blast, the roadway will be restricted to one lane with vehicles guided through the construction zone by a pilot car.
If tonight's test blast is successful, another blast will take place at 9 p.m. on Sept 14. The southbound lanes of I-17 will be closed again for an estimated 30 minutes.
If a third blast is necessary, it will be scheduled later during the week of Sept. 14.
For more information on the project you can call the project hotline at 1-866-751-2083 or e-mail
mailto:prescottdistrictupdates@azdot.gov For the most current information about restrictions statewide, visit the
ABC15 traffic page or
ADOT’S Travel information.
