Home » Northbound I-71 to be closed June 1-4 for paving

Northbound I-71 to be closed June 1-4 for paving

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 30, 2012) – Paving of the final asphalt surface on the northbound lanes of I-71 in Louisville is scheduled for the weekend of June 1-4. To expedite the work, the northbound lanes of I-71 will be completely closed between I-64 in downtown Louisville and I-264 (mile points 0.0 and 5.5), better known as the Watterson Expressway. This road closure is scheduled from 8 p.m. on Friday, June 1, to 6 a.m. on Monday, June 4.

“As with the paving done on southbound I-71 last month, complete closure of the interstate will be utilized to pave the northbound lanes. The work can be done in a shorter time frame than the traditional method of closing one lane at a time,” said Matt Bullock, chief district engineer for the Department of Highways, Louisville District. “This process will also provide a better quality product on the roadway. The two driving lanes will be paved simultaneously, allowing the joint between the lanes to be sealed up while the asphalt is still hot enough to be compacted. Otherwise, water will seep into the joint and lead to the formation of potholes,” Bullock said.

The entrance and exit ramps on northbound I-71 at Zorn Avenue (Exit 2) will also be closed during the weekend.

During the closure of northbound I-71, motorists must follow the signed detour via eastbound I-64 and eastbound I-264 (Watterson Expressway).

The actual starting date and duration of this work may be adjusted if inclement weather or other unforeseen delays occur. Dial 511 or log on to 511.ky.gov for the latest in traffic and travel information in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Traffic information for the District 5 counties also is available at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict5.