Merrillville, IN – Drivers in northwest Indiana can expect significant traffic changes beginning this week as construction kicks off on 61st Avenue over Interstate 65.
A bridge deck overlay project will bring alternating lane closures on and after Monday, April 21, continuing through early September, impacting both local and interstate traffic in the Merrillville and Hobart areas.
According to the Lake County Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, phase one of the project will last through early July. During this phase, the outside right lanes of 61st Avenue will be closed, with traffic shifted to the left. Additionally, key entrance ramps will be temporarily shut down—specifically the westbound 61st Avenue ramp to southbound I-65, and the eastbound 61st Avenue ramp to northbound I-65.
Motorists are advised to use Ridge Road or U.S. Route 30 as alternate routes to access the interstate while the ramps are closed.
The Indiana Department of Transportation is urging commuters to plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling through the area. No specific times have been released for daily work schedules, but updates will be provided as the project progresses.
The construction is part of routine preventative maintenance and is aimed at improving long-term safety and durability of the overpass.
Delays are expected during peak travel times, and drivers are encouraged to stay alert and reduce speeds in work zones to ensure safety for workers and motorists alike.
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