DOTD announces closure of Interstate 49N in Caddo Parish
Wednesday, March 04, 2015 at 11:42:39 PM
BOSSIER CITY, La. – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces the immediate closure of I-49N from La. 1 to the Arkansas state line due to heavy sleet and the possibility of ice forming on the bridges. The detour route is U.S. 71. This road will be reopened when it is deemed safe for travel.

As of now, the following additional closures are in effect:

Ouachita Parish
• I-20 WB On Ramp from Calypso Street
• I-20 WB On Ramp from St. John Street
• I-20 EB On Ramp from Layton Avenue
• I-20 EB Off Ramp at Pecanland Mall Fly Ramp

Motorists are encouraged to check the status of road conditions prior to beginning commutes to impacted areas by utilizing the following resources for the latest information regarding road conditions:

• MyDOTD: Motorists can receive automatic and up-to-date information on local projects, lane and road closures, and other DOTD activity by signing up for MyDOTD at www.dotd.la.gov.
• 511 Traveler Information: Travelers can also find information regarding road closures by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region about which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can access the system by calling 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).
• Way to Geaux smartphone application: The app can be downloaded on any iPhone or Android device by visiting either the iTunes App Store, or Google Play.

During winter weather conditions, motorists should practice the following driving 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.
• Be alert for DOTD and other state and local responders’ equipment, truckers, and workers performing work on the bridges and roadways.

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.