DOTD prepares for more winter weather
Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at 8:00:02 PM
BATON ROUGE, LA – As more winter weather threatens north and central Louisiana, DOTD will continue to keep up its de-icing operations to help minimize impacts to roads and bridges. 


Shortly after midnight, current forecasts call for a wintry mix in north Louisiana. In addition, north and central Louisiana are expected to experience a mixture of snow and sleet late Wednesday morning.

Motorists are advised to anticipate delays due to icy conditions.

Ample supply inventories and equipment are still available as crews address any affected bridges and roadways.

There are still bridge and roadway closures in effect in northern Louisiana, including:

Bossier Parish
• La. 3 at the KCS overpass

Caddo Parish
• I-49 is closed between La. 1 and the Arkansas State line. Alternate route is U.S. 71.
• I-49 North is closed between La. 526 and I-20.
• I-49 South is closed between I-20 and La. 3132.
• All of I-220 is closed.

Ouachita Parish
• I-20 EB off-ramp at Hall Street
• I-20 WB off-ramp Layton/S. 2nd Street
• I-20 EB off-ramp Layton Ave./Civic Center (fork to the left)
• I-20 EB on-ramp from Layton Avene
• I-20 WB on-ramp from Calypso Street
• I-20 EB off-ramp at Pecanland Mall Fly Ramp
• LA 3280 – Endom Bridge (DeSiard Street Bridge)
• I-20 WB on-ramp from St. John Street
• I-20 EB on-ramp from LA 34 (Stella Mill Fly ramp)
• La. 546 Overpass over KCS Railroad
• La.546 Overpass over I-20
• U.S. 165 Business Overpass (Lea Joyner Expressway)
• I-20 EB off-ramp at 5th Street
• I-20 EB on-ramp at 5th Street
• I-20 WB off-ramp at 5th Street
• I-20 WB on-ramp at 5th Street
• La. 154 Bridge over Lake Bistineau

For the most up-to-date and accurate road status information, DOTD advises motorists to use the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or via phone by dialing 511. Out-of-state travelers can access the system by calling 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).

As wintry conditions linger, DOTD urges motorists to use extreme caution when traveling on roadways during hazardous weather conditions and to stay off the roads and travel only if necessary. Additionally, motorists should expect congestion throughout the impacted areas due to icy conditions.

During winter weather conditions, motorists should drive using the following safety tips:
• Drive slowly and carefully.
• Avoid driving while distracted.
• Always allow for extra driving time.
• Reduce speeds when visibility is low.
• Make sure there is plenty of room between vehicles.
• Watch for salt trucks, local and state responders, and other equipment on the road.

Also, be cautious of black ice--a thin, transparent layer of ice accumulation that can be visually hard to detect on bridges, overpasses, off-ramps and in shady spots. As always, DOTD reminds motorists to buckle up and refrain from drinking and driving.