US 60 Freeway Closures & Traffic Alerts: What You Need To Know

Crystal Crooks 10 May 2025

Are you prepared for the impending disruptions to your daily commute? Navigating Arizona's highways is about to become a significantly more complex endeavor, particularly for those who rely on US 60.

Beginning May 15th, a popular Arizona highway will undergo closures three times a week. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is implementing these measures to facilitate essential infrastructure improvements. These closures are integral to a substantial $44.7 million project, designed to replace the Queen Creek and Waterfall Canyon bridges. The new spans will be engineered to accommodate both passenger and commercial traffic for many decades to come.

The scheduled closures, primarily affecting US 60, are a result of rock blasting operations required for the bridge replacement. According to the ADOT, closures are crucial during these operations to ensure the safety of both construction crews and the traveling public.

Motorists traveling in the vicinity of the project should anticipate delays and plan alternate routes to minimize disruption. The closures are slated to occur on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the initial phases. However, depending on project progress, the duration and schedule of closures may be subject to change.

ADOT has stressed the importance of staying informed about the project's progress and any changes to the schedule. The public is encouraged to subscribe to traffic alerts and project updates via email. Additionally, message boards will be set up on US 60 in advance to provide real-time information about specific restrictions or closures.

Project Information	Details
Project Name	Queen Creek and Waterfall Canyon Bridge Replacement
Location	US 60, between Miami and Superior, Arizona
Reason for Closures	Rock Blasting Operations
Closure Days	Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
Closure Times	9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (early phases)
Project Cost	$44.7 million
Duration	Expected to continue through November
Detour Information	Drivers should anticipate extended closures of US 60 and plan accordingly, the alternative routes will be set up for the drivers.
Project Updates	Subscribe to traffic alerts and project updates via email.
Reference Website	Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT)

Motorists are advised that closures may not occur every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, but rather when blasting operations necessitate them. These restrictions are subject to change as the project moves forward.

For those traveling near the area, it's crucial to remain aware of the dynamic nature of these highway modifications. Flagging operations will be in effect before and after the full closures to guide traffic safely through the affected zones.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced that the US 60 reopened after crews removed rock debris off the highway following blasting. While the highway has reopened, it's important to note that the speed limit has been temporarily reduced to 25 mph through the area to ensure safety as construction continues.

In addition to the closures planned for the bridge replacement project, there have been other incidents affecting the 60 freeway. Recently, an overpass on US 60 in Tempe was closed due to a serious crash. The incident, updated on November 11, 2025, at 6:12 AM MST, added to the complexity of navigating the highway system.

Furthermore, motorists should also be aware of other areas experiencing closures. For instance, in Hacienda Heights, an armed robbery investigation resulted in the closure of the 60 Freeway. Deputies responded to a Denny's and nearby construction site following a shots-fired call, leading to the temporary halt of traffic.

Additional closures have been reported on various other roadways throughout Southern California. The California Highway Patrol said all lanes of the 60 freeway were closed at Garey Avenue, eastbound at Phillips Ranch Road, and on the 71 at the 60 interchange.

To stay informed on current road conditions, access ADOT's statewide network of highway cameras, and receive real-time updates on crashes, incidents, delays, roadwork, and closures, users are encouraged to utilize the Arizona Travel Information System. This resource provides crucial data on highway info and activities. The system categorizes incidents as heavy, medium, minimal, and future, offering essential information for trip planning. Likewise, delays and roadwork are classified as full, partial, or future, with closures delineated as medium, low, and future, helping travelers prepare accordingly.

The US 60 between Miami and Magma Mine Road, near milepost 231, will be open for local traffic only until the rock is removed. Drivers should adhere to all posted speed limits and follow the instructions of flaggers in the construction zone.

In 2022, Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) resurfaced Hwy 60 between Hwy 63 and Hwy 52, including the communities of Zumbro Falls and Mazeppa. The project started in May and was completed in October, which involved a series of improvements:

Replaced/repaired 8 culverts and pipes;
Constructed a new bridge west of Zumbro Falls

These projects, combined with the ongoing efforts on the US 60 in Arizona, showcase a commitment to maintaining and improving vital transportation infrastructure.

For updates on the project, consult ADOTs website and social media feeds and also for detour information.

Remember that while these closures may cause inconvenience, they are critical to the long-term safety and efficiency of Arizona's roadways. By staying informed, planning ahead, and exercising patience, drivers can navigate these temporary changes with minimal disruption.

The Arizona Department of Transportation will provide advance notice when specific restrictions or closures are planned, and the project team will set up message boards on US 60 in advance to keep motorists informed.