HOUSTON – I-10 will be closed in both directions in downtown Houston, starting at 8 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday, traffic officials said.
The closure is planned so that crews can continue the demolition and reconstruction of the Elysian Viaduct, according to a news release from the Texas Department of Transportation.
This includes a total shutdown of all eastbound and westbound main lanes of I-10 between I-45 and I-69.
Drivers heading east on I-10 Katy will be sent on a detour to I-45 Gulf Freeway, south to I-69 Eastex, then north to the I-10 East Freeway eastbound main lanes.
For anyone heading west on I-10 East Freeway, you’ll be detoured to I-69 Eastex south, to I-45 Gulf Freeway north, then to the I-10 Katy Freeway westbound main lanes, according to a news release from TXDoT.
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Some entrance and exit ramps, along with connector ramps, will be closed as well so that crews can accomplish their work. A full list of associated closures can be found here.
“This project includes the reconstruction of the Elysian Viaduct (bridge structure) from Brooks Street to Commerce Street,” the release said. “It was needed to accommodate population growth, enhance mobility and improve connectivity in the local area. TxDOT awarded the construction contract to Balfour Beatty in June 2016 for $35.6 million.”
Some drivers who live nearby are not looking forward to the congested roads.
"It affects us because we have to go to work early so that being every day...it's a hassle," said Adam Chavez who takes the route to work every day.
Many locals are frustrated over the inconvenience. Bryan Skeete lives right off the Waco exit.
"I was like, 'Oh no! Closed again?' because it's been off and on closed for the last six months," said Skeet.
Others said, they are glad the information is out there. They advise that others have some patience.
"It's going to be a little tight situation but if you know Houston like most of us do, we'll still be able to maneuver and get around to where we need to go," said Eddie Jones, who lives in the area.
For more information on closures, visit Houston Transtar's website.
