Residents of a Laveen neighborhood are concerned over a proposal that would add on and off ramps to Loop 202 in their neighborhood as part of the South Mountain Freeway expansion.
“As of right now, it’s blindsided us to the point where we don’t understand what’s going on,” Mike Freer said.
Residents living near Dusty Lane received a mailer from ADOT -- the proposed plan would add an interchange to Ivanhoe Street, paving the way for an easy connection to neighboring Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino. Prior plans show an underpass under Loop 202 on Ivanhoe to allow residents in and out of the area without freeway access.
“For them to put an interchange into such a small, tiny serene community as we are is a game changer,” said Anne Rogers, who is now working on a petition against the proposal.
ADOT is planning to host an open house on May 30 to discuss the project and solicit feedback.
In a statement, spokesman Steve Elliott said, “We are conducting the required federal process of seeking input on the interchange that is under consideration and issues such as sound walls and other aspects of freeway construction in that area.”
The agency estimates approximately 2,000 vehicles would use the interchange and 117,000 vehicles would travel on the freeway by the year 2040.
The Gila River Tribal Community has taken an official stance against the freeway construction project as a whole. ABC15 is still waiting to hear back from tribal officials regarding their stance on an interchange that could benefit their casino.
An environmental study began in February and is expected to be complete in August. If approved, ADOT said the interchange will not delay the opening of the South Mountain Freeway expansion in late 2019.
The Center Segment Construction Update and Ivanhoe Street open house will take place from 6
to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 30 at the Laveen Elementary School District Office, Building A, 5001 W. Dobbins Road, Phoenix, AZ 85339.
