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3rd and 5th Avenues Improvement Project

3rd and fifth avenues.

As part of Phoenix's Downtown Transportation Study and Bicycle Master Plan, both adopted by City Council, the 3rd & 5th Avenues Improvement Project is aimed at increasing safety, improving corridor circulation and livability, extending and expanding bike facilities and introducing innovative bicycle improvements. 

Elements of the overall project include:

  • Pedestrian and bicycle improvements
  • Traffic, bike and pedestrian signal and safety upgrades
  • Shade structures and enhanced landscape in select locations
  • Drainage modifications
  • Pavement resurfacing
  • Two-way traffic from Washington Street to Roosevelt Street

Potential outcomes from this project are more efficient circulation, safer roadways, multi-modal connectivity, greater economic development opportunity and area neighborhood preservation.

This effort is seen as a singular piece of the overall program to make Phoenix a healthier, more vibrant community and our streets more livable.​

Project Details

3rd Avenue

Roosevelt Street to McDowell Road

Overview: This section contains the city’s first protected cycle track dedicated for bicycles, a pedestrian signal and shade structures.

Van Buren to Roosevelt Streets

Overview: The lane configuration changed from 1-way to 2-way.

Washington to Van Buren Streets

Overview: The lane configuration changed from 1-way to 2-way.

5th Avenue

Roosevelt Street to McDowell Road

Overview: Traditional bike lanes, street parking, traffic signal upgrades, landscape improvements and a shade structure have been installed.

Van Buren to Roosevelt Streets

Overview: The lane configuration changed from 1-way to 2-way. Traditional bike lanes, street parking, traffic signal upgrades and landscape improvements are complete. 

Washington to Van Buren Streets

Overview: The lane configuration changed from 1-way to 2-way. Traditional bike lanes, on-street parking, traffic signal upgrades and landscape improvements are installed. 

Map showing enhanced pedestrian crossings on Kenilworth Elementary School at 5th Avenue & Culver Street, and at Great Arizona Puppet Theater at 3rd Avenue & Lathham Street. Arrows indicate the flow of traffic and bicycles.
Project area map

Please note the schedule for this project remains flexible and is subject to change. Area stakeholders will be notified prior to the start of construction and will be kept informed of project impacts throughout each phase of construction.

  • Planning and Pre-Design Phase–Fall 2015 / Fall 2016 (Completed)
  • Design Phase–Spring 2020 (Completed) 
  • Construction Completed

Contact the Project Team