Thursday, March 21

I-35 Selma update ... the parkway progresses....

After a supplier was unable to get necessary materials to the Dan Williams Construction bridge-building crews this week, the total closure of I-35 main lanes at FM 3009 was postponed until next week.

The closure schedule and master plan has changed a bit, too - in a way that will benefit the driver. I've explained things a bit on video, but if you'd like to read what's happening, here you go:

 Monday (25 March) the south-bound main lanes will close while crews hang bridge support beams over the south-bound lanes. Tuesday, the north-bound lanes will be closed. Crews will begin shutting down lanes at 9 p.m. each night, with the total closure in effect by 11 p.m.

We'll have things back open by 5:30 a.m.

The previous plan was to close down all lanes, in both directions. This plan allows traffic in at least one direction to remain unencumbered.

After the beams have been set, crews will begin laying bridge deck forms - panels that create a mold for the slabs of concrete you'll actually drive on when we're all done. That work will begin Wednesday night (March 27) and extend through about April 4 (morning of April 5).

The work to set the forms and, subsequently, pour concrete will require additional highway closures. We're trying to work out a specific schedule, but we're hoping to limit total closures to a single night or two.

If you're looking to avoid the area (which I recommend) consider using FM 2252 through Garden Ridge. FM 2252 connects directly with I-35 north of the project, and connects again with Loop 1604 about a mile from the 1604-35 interchange.

You might also try using state Highway 46 to get down to I-10 at Seguin. And, if you're traveling to/from Austin, there's always SH 130.

By the way, in observance of Good Friday and Easter, work will be halted next Friday thru Sunday night (March 29-31).

Shifting gears....

Some pretty big news on the Wurzbach Parkway project. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just direct you to the project's weekly newsletter (it should be posted online by March 22).