DOTD reminds drivers to be aware of road conditions
Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at 8:04:48 PM
BATON ROUGE – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development would like to remind travelers of possible lingering impacts due to the recent winter weather in the northern part of the state.

While conditions are improving, the potential for re-freezing remains for this evening and early Thursday morning. Staff will continue to scout the highways until all roadways are re-opened.

Motorists are advised to anticipate delays due to icy conditions.

There are still bridge and roadway closures in effect in northern Louisiana. These are as follows:

Bossier Parish
o La. 3 at the KCS overpass
o La. 154 Bridge over Lake Bistineau

Caddo Parish
o I-49 is closed between La. 1 and the Arkansas State line, alternate route is US 71
o I-49 North between La. 526 and I-20
o I-49 South between I-20 and La. 3132
o I-220 in its entirety

Ouachita Parish
o I-20 EB Off Ramp at Hall Street
o I-20 EB Off Ramp Layton Ave./Civic Center (fork to the left)
o I-20 EB On Ramp from Layton Ave.
o I-20 EB Off Ramp at Pecanland Mall Fly Ramp
o I-20 EB On Ramp from La. 34 (Stella Mill fly over ramp)
o I-20 EB Off Ramp at 5th Street
o I-20 EB On Ramp at 5th Street
o I-20 WB Off Ramp Layton/S. 2nd Street
o I-20 WB On Ramp from Calypso Street
o I-20 WB On Ramp from St. John Street
o I-20 WB Off Ramp at 5th Street
o I-20 WB On Ramp at 5th Street
o La. 3280 – Endom Bridge (DeSiard Street Bridge)
o La. 546 Overpass over KCS Railroad
o La. 546 Overpass over I-20
o US 165 Business Overpass (Lea Joyner Expressway)

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).

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.