METROPOLIS, Ill. (WSIL) -- Crews will start work on the I-24 Ohio River bridge on Monday. Because of the work being done, there will be lane restrictions on the bridge.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) said the work and lane closures will start on March 3, at 7 p.m.
The bridge sits between Metropolis, Illinois, and Paducah, Kentucky.
KYTC informed motorists should be prepared for the following...
- One lane in each direction, 24 hours a day / 7 days a week until October 14.
- Width restrictions of 10鈥� 6鈥�.
- Reduced speed limit of 55 mph along I-24 WB from the 7.5 MM through the work zone.
- Possible delays. Allow extra time to reach your destination or consider alternate routes.
- Message boards with alerts using real-time data about traffic conditions ahead.
- Zipper merging 鈥� Using both open lanes until the defined merge point and then taking turns, like the teeth of the zipper.
- Enhanced law enforcement presence throughout the project. Obey the speed limit and lane width restriction, avoid distractions and do not drive while intoxicated. Motorists are also advised to plan ahead to prevent running out of gas in this work zone.
Please note:
- Only passenger cars are allowed to cross the U.S. 45 Ohio River "Brookport" Bridge between Paducah, KY and Brookport, IL.
- The nearest detour for commercial vehicles is the U.S. 51 Ohio River 鈥淐airo鈥� Bridge between Wickliffe, KY and Cairo, IL.
- The entire project is expected to be completed by September 2027. Construction dates for 2026 and 2027 have not been announced.
