I lived in Phoenix in the early 70s, before they built the freeways. Getting across town was a bear — traffic was horrendous. And it seemed that they were always digging up the major streets — they would have lanes blocked while they put in, say, a water main, then cover it up, then put in electrical lines, then cover them up ... etc., etc. Summers were not pleasant — many days exceeded 105 degrees, and it was often still 100 degrees at 10 PM, sometimes later. Asphalt softened and high heels sank, and it seemed like you were constantly running between your refrigerated house and your air conditioned car. You could easily burn your hands on the steering wheel or gearshift - never mind touching the car to get in. Winters were fine, but crowded with “snowbirds” (adding to the traffic issues). If you wanted to drive to San Diego or Los Angeles, your best bet was to leave around 1 or 2 AM to get across the desert before it got hot. Then the monsoon season when the rains rolled through — high humidity with that heat — ecch. If I had to live there again, I would go up to the foothills, like Carefree or Cave Creek - still in the area, but not quite so hot as in town. Prescott, Sedona or even Tucson would be even better.
Sounds like you’re talking about Indian School and 51st Ave. They nearly killed my business in ‘74.