Navigating Louisiana Highways During July 4th Roadwork

(KMDL-FM) The American Automobile Association is estimating that 61.4 million Americans will be in their cars and driving this week and the July 4th holiday weekend. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development knows many of you will be using the Interstate to make those treks.

Currently, the LA DoTD is in the midst of hundreds of concurrent road construction projects, many of those affecting the major arteries of I-10, I-20, and I-49. There are other projects on other major state roads and highways as well.

Close view on the road roller working on the new road construction site — i-Stockr

The concurrence of multiple road projects and extra traffic on the roadways, combined with excessive heat, will not make for a pleasant start, middle, or end to your July 4th holiday. Fortunately, we have some good news that might allow motorists with more than a few miles to travel the chance to breathe easier.

What Can Be Done to Ease Traffic Congestion Over July 4th in Louisiana?

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has had a long-standing policy of suspending temporary lane closures during times of peak traffic for holiday motorists. This would mean a smoother traffic flow and less congestion, where LA DOTD can make that adjustment.

The agency did announce that all oversize and overweight vehicle travel will be suspended on state highways on Saturday, July 4th. This decision was made in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Safety and the Office of State Police to maximize the safety of motorists traveling over the holiday.

Probably the best way to beat a slowdown during a long summer drive is to avoid it by going around it. With the Way to Geaux App available for your smartphone, you can get real-time information on traffic in your current location anywhere in the state. The App is free to download from Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Here's How to Get Real-Time Traffic Updates from LA DoTD

You may also access Louisiana traffic and road conditions via 511LA.org. This site is very helpful for planning your route, as you can see where current closures and construction projects are located. You can also find real-time crash information as well.

The American Automobile Association says that gas prices are dropping, so you might be a little more encouraged to make a road trip this Independence Day Weekend. Just remember if you do, drive sober, buckle your seatbelt, and plan your route.