WMOK – Metropolis, IL – Metropolis Police Chief Harry Masse, alongside Chief Tolbert, participated in a meeting regarding the I-24 bridge construction held at the Kentucky Transportation Headquarters in Paducah. During this meeting, key details were shared about upcoming work and traffic management strategies.
Beginning March 2nd, eastbound lanes of I-24 will be closed, with traffic being diverted to a head-to-head setup on the westbound side. A jersey wall will separate the opposing flows of traffic to ensure safety. Motorists should expect to see traffic diverted just west of the bridge and merging back to the eastbound side just to the east of the bridge. Chief Masse advised that traffic control measures will follow similar protocols to those implemented last year.
Chief Masse raised concerns during the meeting regarding the possibility of converting one lane on the westbound side of U.S. 45. However, transportation officials declined this request, citing safety studies indicating that maintaining ramp traffic prior to the lane closure is more secure.
In addition to the bridge construction updates, Chief Masse noted that our rest area will go out for bid in June, with plans to shut down for approximately two years. This closure may affect travel plans for many drivers.
Furthermore, a request for additional “no parking” signs on the ramps was denied, as the existing signage complies with the standards set forth by the National Highway Safety Administration.
Officials anticipate that the current phase of bridge work will be completed by October 13th. This timeline coincides with the second weekend of the upcoming encampment, which is scheduled for the 10th and 11th, potentially leading to increased traffic congestion during this busy period.
As work progresses on the I-24 bridge, local drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant and plan their routes accordingly to accommodate the changes in traffic flow.
Comments