Overnight Ramp Closures on Eastbound Interstate 30 in Saline County
Project Overview
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) is actively working on a major project to widen Interstate 30 to six lanes in Saline County. This ambitious initiative is part of the Connecting Arkansas Program, aiming to improve the infrastructure and traffic flow within the region.
Impact on Commuters
As part of the widening project, there are planned overnight ramp closures at multiple interchanges. Specifically, the I-30 East/Highway 70 interchange (Exit 111) will experience ramp closures. These closures are crucial for the construction process, which involves widening the interstate to improve traffic capacity and reduce congestion over time.
Details of the Closures
– Previous Closure Schedules: The most recent scheduled closure involved the I-30 East ramp to Hwy. 70 and the Hwy. 70 ramp to I-30 East, which occurred over three nights starting from November 18, 2022. The closure was from 11:59 PM on Friday, November 18, to 6 AM on Saturday, November 19, and continued through the next two evenings.
– Current Closures: Although specific dates for future closures are not detailed in recent updates, it is crucial for commuters to stay informed about upcoming schedules. Weather conditions can affect these timelines, so it’s essential to check for updates regularly.
Detour Routes
During these closures, commuters need to plan their routes accordingly. For I-30 East traffic attempting to reach Highway 70, the detour route is as follows:
– Detour for I-30 East to Hwy. 70:
– Take Exit 114.
– Continue on I-30 West.
– Take I-30 West at Exit 106 to access I-30 East and then proceed to Hwy. 70.
For Hwy. 70 traffic aiming to reach I-30 East, the detour route is:
– Detour for Hwy. 70 to I-30 East:
– Take I-30 West.
– Use Exit 106 to access I-30 East.
Safety Measures
To ensure safety, ARDOT has implemented various traffic management strategies. These include appropriately placed signs and message boards, construction barrels, and barricades to guide traffic around the closed ramps. Additionally, drivers should be aware that noise levels may be higher in areas near the construction site, particularly during nighttime hours.
Future Planning and Development
The projects underway are not just about immediate relief but also about long-term development. By widening Interstate 30 to six lanes and improving interchanges like those at Highway 67, ARDOT aims to enhance the overall efficiency of the highway network, catering to the growing needs of Saline County and beyond. For more information on these projects, commuters can visit the Connecting Arkansas Program website.
Stay tuned for updates on specific closure schedules to plan your travel safely and efficiently during these necessary road works.
