Construction of the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway begins later this summer, so several Phoenix roads along the 22-mile corridor area are now officially part of the state highway system.

The South Mountain Freeway right of way has the designation State Route 202, meaning all roads in that area are now controlled by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The change involves Pecos Road in Ahwatukee Foothills, part of 59th Avenue in the West Valley and numerous cross streets.

ADOT is responsible for maintaining the pavement, sidewalks, drainage, traffic signals, signs and street lights along the right of way, as well as for providing cleanups and debris removal and response to traffic incidents. This temporary right of way is necessary to allow crews to safely and efficiently complete the work.

Once the freeway is complete in late 2019, Phoenix will again assume responsibility for any roads that are not part of the freeway.

The South Mountain Freeway, running east-west along Pecos Road and north-south near 59th Avenue, will connect with Interstate 10 at both ends. It will complete the Loop 101 and Loop 202 system and form a direct link between the East Valley and West Valley, while providing an alternative to I-10 through downtown Phoenix.