Getting Around Phoenix

The streets in Phoenix form an orderly grid. Numbered streets run north and south, intersected by named streets going east and west. The axis is formed by Washington Street, which divides the city north and south, and Central Avenue, which determines the east and west sections. All avenues run west of Central; all streets, east.

Unless otherwise posted the speed limit on most streets is 25 mph. A right turn on red after a complete stop is legal unless otherwise posted. During rush hours the center turn lanes of 7th Avenue and 7th Street are reverse traffic flow lanes: morning rush hour one way into the city and evening rush hour one way out of the city. Try to avoid rush hours, 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.

Parking is regulated by meters. During business hours and in the downtown area certain one-way streets have restricted parking hours. Rates at public lots start at $1.50 per hour.

Major highways make Phoenix readily accessible from all directions. The main route from Flagstaff and other points north is I-17, while the main route from the south and southeast is I-10. US 60, coming from the east, joins I-10 just north of Baseline Road.

In Phoenix I-10 intersects I-17 at 20th Street and leads west to Los Angeles. West of Phoenix, SR 85 intersects with I-10 and continues south to Gila Bend; I-8 can then be followed to Yuma and San Diego.

From its easily accessible and efficient airport to a full complement of professional transportation services, Greater Phoenix offers visitors convenience in travel.

Upon arrival, you will enjoy the superb location of Sky Harbor International Airport, which is just five minutes from Downtown Phoenix and only 20 to 30 minutes from most major resorts.

Car rental companies and shuttle services situated in and around Sky Harbor Airport provide hassle-free service. Greater Phoenix offers the efficient Valley Metro bus system, which extends to all areas of the city, and the free Copper Square DASH (Downtown Area Shuttle), which transports passengers night and day to places like US Airways Center, Chase Field, the State Capitol building, museums, and other downtown facilities. In addition to bus services, taxis and private cars can be hired. Pedicabs bike you to and from parking and around Downtown Phoenix for sporting events, performing arts and nightlife.

Construction efforts are now under way for a light rail system that will serve Sky Harbor Airport, as well as Downtown Phoenix, Tempe and other areas of high activity. The system is scheduled to be on line in 2009.