La Porte, IN – Drivers in La Porte will see some relief this afternoon as U.S. 35/Indiana Avenue reopens to through traffic following months of construction, though officials warn the opening may be short-lived.
According to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Northwest, crews have completed major reconstruction work at the intersection of U.S. 35 and Kingsbury Avenue/Woodlawn Drive, along with extensive outfall utility improvements. The roadway is expected to reopen later today, allowing passenger vehicles to travel through the area once again.
However, INDOT cautioned that additional work remains. Road reconstruction between the northern end of this year’s project zone and State Road 2/Lincolnway is scheduled for 2026. As that work progresses, U.S. 35 will experience phased closures moving northward.
Because of the amount of work still required, INDOT says its contractor may close U.S. 35 again for the next construction phase as early as mid-February, weather permitting. Drivers are urged to stay alert for crews that may be on-site between now and then.
An important note for commercial drivers: despite the reopening, the current truck detour using U.S. 6, State Road 39, and State Road 2 will remain in place. INDOT says the short timeframe of U.S. 35 being open to through traffic makes it unsafe to reroute truck traffic back onto the roadway.
The project impacts La Porte in La Porte County and is a key connector for drivers traveling between northern Indiana communities and the Michigan City and South Bend metro areas.
Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, watch for signage, and allow extra travel time as construction activity continues.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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