The Texas Department of Transportation is asking for drivers to be aware of several changes in traffic patterns as construction continues at key points on Highway 59.
First, TxDOT is asking motorists to be cautious and alert as they travel SL 287 near the US 59 construction site Wednesday as traffic patterns will be changed.
SL 287 traffic traveling eastbound will be redirected near the BU 59 overpass from the existing lane to the new eastbound main lane. Traffic is expected to be shifted onto the new main lane beginning at about 9 a.m. Motorists are asked to remain alert to all signage, law enforcement which might be monitoring the traffic and workers present during the traffic switch.
The speed limit through the $58 million construction project is 45 miles per hour. Remember to stay alert to workers or equipment in the area. Traffic fines double when workers are present.
In Nacogdoches, TxDOT also reminds motorists attempting to exit US 59 and continue westbound on SL 224 or continue on to US 59 North in Nacogdoches that traffic patterns have changed.
Webber LLC, contractor for the $5.9 million project, redirected traffic last week which included the closure of the cloverleaf entry ramp that exited from the outside lane of US 59. The newly constructed exit has redirected traffic to the inside lanes of US 59, exiting onto SL 224 westbound/US 59 northbound.
Traffic must now use the left lane to turn left and travel north on US 59 to Texarkana/SL 224 West. The right lane is now a dual lane that will continue traveling on BU 59 into downtown Nacogdoches and for large trucks needing to make a wide swing left onto SL 224/US 59 northbound.
TxDOT urges motorists wishing to travel on the west loop to utilize the left two lanes and turn left under the existing US 59/LP 224 bridge. Motorists are alerted by message boards warning of the switch and additional law enforcement monitoring traffic near the site. Watch for pavement markings on the roadway to provide additional directional guidance.
“Since the traffic switch last week, traffic has remained congested but motorists are adjusting to the change,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer for the Lufkin District. “We continue to urge drivers to pay close attention to lighted message boards and any other signage through the project that displays information about this and any other traffic changes.”
The ongoing project is designed to reconfigure the intersection, improve traffic signals and add a left and right turn lane. The finished project will provide for better maneuverability, address congestion, maintain a safe system and provide a smoother traffic flow.
As construction continues on US 59 and SL 224, motorists are advised to stay alert to workers and heavy equipment throughout the construction projects. Remember traffic fines double when workers are present.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.
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