How to Navigate I-64 Downtown Lane Closures

Work started last week on westbound Interstate 64 (I-64). Missouri Department of Transportation representatives report one lane is closed around the clock, with a second lane closing during non-peak traffic periods. However, because traffic on the double deck structure is directional, just because its rush hour doesn’t mean it’s a peak traffic period in that direction, they remind.

“We know this work causes inconvenience, which is why we have made the decision to get this work completed before the end of the year. That will require people altering how they commute. If possible, people should shift their working hours, telecommute, use MetroLink or MetroBus services, or use one of the other local bridges into downtown,” said Deanna Venker, MoDOT area engineer for St. Louis, in a release issued Thursday morning.

Tips to avoid delays include:

1. The peak traffic period on westbound I-64 is between 5:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. weekdays. The rest of the time up to two lanes may be closed on westbound I-64.
2. The peak traffic period on eastbound I-64 is between 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. weekdays. The rest of the time up to two lanes may be closed on eastbound I-64.
3. Watch the message boards. During high levels of congestions, MoDOT and IDOT will put messages on either overhead boards or roadside boards to encourage drivers to take different routes.

“Not everyone is able to make adjustments to their routes or schedules. If you can make those adjustments, though, please do so. That way it opens the roadway up for people who can’t,” stated Venker in the release.