BATON ROUGE, La. – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces the closure of the La. 23 High Rise Bridge in Empire due to icy conditions.

As weather continues to deteriorate, motorists are urged to stay off the roads whenever possible and use extra caution if traveling during hazardous weather conditions.

The detour route will be Highway 11.

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 about 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 Web site at www.511la.org.

Additionally, motorists can utilize the new "Way to Geaux" application to receive real-time, around the clock travel alerts. The hands-free, eyes-free smartphone application can be downloaded on any iPhone or Android device by visiting either the iTunes App Store, or Google Play.