Hopes high in W. Valley for 303 Work

Construction of a freeway interchange that will link an improved Loop 303 to Interstate 10 is the needed linchpin in what one day will be a commercial corridor similar to Loop 101, officials say. Excavation, dirt hauling and culvert work began in November on the $134 million interchange in Goodyear. It is expected to be completed in summer 2014. The ramp connections will be similar to ones that connect Loop 101 and I-10 in Tolleson and Avondale. The interchange will connect with new sections of an expanded Loop 303, with three lanes in each direction, stretching from Thomas Road north to Grand Avenue in Surprise. Currently, Loop 303 is either one or two lanes in each direction. Economic-development and city leaders in Goodyear, Surprise and Litchfield Park said the construction is the first step toward greater prosperity. "All you have to do is look at any of the major freeways that have been built around the Valley, the (Loop) 202s, the (Loop) 101s, and all you see along them is increased development and increased economic activity," Litchfield Park Mayor Tom Schoaf said. "It would be very surprising if 303 doesn't become a tremendous driver of economic development in the West Valley."

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