A major roadblock has hit Arizona’s long-planned Interstate 11 (I-11) project. Federal and state transportation agencies have halted planning work on the proposed 280-mile highway after a lawsuit from conservation groups challenged its environmental review. The project, which aims to connect Nogales to Wickenburg—and eventually stretch from Mexico to Canada—must now undergo a more rigorous environmental impact study before moving forward.
Why Was the I-11 Project Paused?
The Center for Biological Diversity and other conservation groups sued the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) over concerns that the highway’s approval relied on a flawed environmental analysis. Their primary issue? The project failed to adequately account for its impact on threatened and endangered species, particularly the cactus ferruginous pygmy owl.
This small desert owl was officially listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in 2023—after the initial environmental study for I-11 was completed. Conservationists argue that the project must reassess its potential harm to not just the pygmy owl, but also other protected species, including:
- Western yellow-billed cuckoos
- Yuma Ridgway’s rails
- Southwestern willow flycatchers
The lawsuit claims the highway would lead to habitat destruction, urbanization, and climate threats that weren’t properly addressed in the initial review. As a result, the FHWA and ADOT have agreed to reevaluate the environmental impact statement and conduct a public comment period before making further decisions.
Potential Route Changes and Environmental Impact
ADOT is considering two potential routes for the Pima County portion of I-11:
- An eastern option along the existing Interstate 10
- A western option through undeveloped desert, near Saguaro National Park and Ironwood Forest National Monument
The second option is the most controversial because it cuts through untouched desert and protected areas. Environmentalists worry that choosing this route could disrupt local ecosystems and push endangered species toward extinction.
What This Means for Arizona’s Growth and Infrastructure
While conservationists see this as a victory, many Arizona residents and business owners are frustrated by the delay. I-11 is expected to be a major economic driver, improving transportation, reducing congestion, and creating jobs. Supporters argue that Arizona’s rapid growth demands modern infrastructure, and blocking highways in the name of environmental concerns could slow down progress.
Opponents counter that poorly planned development leads to long-term damage, and Arizona must balance growth with sustainability.
What Happens Next?
With the environmental review back on the table, the project is at a standstill until agencies complete their reassessment. Once that’s done, a 60-day public comment period will open, allowing Arizona residents, businesses, and environmental advocates to weigh in.
For real estate investors and developers, this delay is a reminder that policy and regulation play a huge role in Arizona’s expansion. Whether I-11 moves forward or gets rerouted, it’s clear that infrastructure planning in the state will face increased scrutiny in the years to come.