Arizona rest area to close to the public for months, but will remain open for commercial vehicle drivers

Starting next week, an Arizona rest area will close to the motoring public for construction, but will still provide parking and limited services for truck drivers.

Starting on Monday, July 11, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will close the Sunset Point Rest Area along I-17 at mile marker 252 north of Phoenix for upgrades.

The rest area will be closed to travelers for “several months,” but ADOT says that commercial vehicle drivers will be allowed to use the rest area.

“During the closure, commercial truck drivers will be allowed to continue using Sunset Point to park their vehicles and get some rest. Although facilities will be limited, portable restrooms and handwashing stations will be provided for commercial drivers to use. All other drivers are encouraged to use facilities in other areas, including Black Canyon City, which is about 10 miles south of the rest area, and Cordes Junction, which is 10 miles to the north,” ADOT said.

ADOT reminds drivers that no facilities are available at the Badger Springs and Bumble Bee exits on I-17.

Improvements at the rest area include upgrades to the water systems, septic systems, restrooms, and vending areas, as well as an expanded truck parking area.

The $7.5 million project is expected to be completed by spring 2023.