DOTD makes traffic improvements following New Orleans airport terminal opening
Friday, November 08, 2019 at 3:37:33 PM
Kenner, La.- Following the opening of the new terminal at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has made significant improvements to the Loyola Drive Interchange to improve the capacity increase as a result of the expansion.
With all major traffic changes, DOTD monitors the way traffic is responding and makes improvement or changes as needed. DOTD is working with local law enforcement as the community adjusts to the change.
In order to ease traffic congestion along Interstate 10 at its interchange with Loyola Drive, DOTD will be modifying the lane configuration at the Loyola Drive exit ramp from I-10 West. The new configuration will now accommodate two lanes of exiting traffic from I-10. This improvement is anticipated to reduce overall congestion at the exit ramp and along the interstate for commuters accessing the new airport terminal, as well as motorists seeking destinations throughout the City of Kenner. Crews will be working on these modifications throughout the weekend and are anticipated to be completed by early Monday morning, weather permitting.
Additionally, the Department has already implemented three traffic signal timing plans at the signalized intersection of I-10 and Loyola Drive that will assist in minimizing delays for motorists entering and departing from the airport. Roadway striping modifications have recently been added on the northbound lane of Loyola Drive to the eastbound entrance of I-10. This will allow commuters the ability to enter the I-10 on-ramp quicker, thus reducing backup delays.
Traffic is monitored through DOTD’s Traffic Management Center where recent traffic trends associated with the airport opening have shown congestion backup, though the queues are continuing to improve and clear up quickly. DOTD will continue to monitor congestion around the airport corridor and implement additional safety and operational improvements as necessary.
We appreciate the public’s patience and encourage all drivers to minimize distractions as you adjust to the new traffic patterns in the vicinity of the I-10 and Loyola Drive Interchange.
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information.