Louisville, January 13, 2026
Motorists are advised to plan for delays on I-71 in Louisville due to daytime lane closures as part of a $50 million widening project. Closures will take place from January 12 to January 14, with crews working on barrier walls and pothole repairs. The project aims to improve safety and traffic flow along this critical interstate segment and is expected to be completed by fall 2027.
Daytime Lane Closures on I-71 in Louisville This Week
Drivers Must Plan for Delays During $50 Million Road Project
Louisville, Kentucky – This week, motorists traveling along Interstate 71 (I-71) should prepare for daytime lane closures as part of a significant $50 million widening and improvement initiative. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has notified the public that from Monday, January 12, through Wednesday, January 14, there will be intermittent lane closures between the I-65/I-71 interchange near Frankfort Avenue and the I-71/Zorn Avenue interchange. These closures will occur from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with potential overnight closures from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Crews will be working on installation of barrier walls, pothole repairs, and other preparatory activities that pave the way for median enhancements. Motorists are encouraged to heed posted signage, exercise caution in work zones, and allow for extra travel time.
Project Overview
The I-71 widening and improvement project represents a robust two-year effort aimed at increasing safety and mobility along a critical 2-mile segment of I-71 in Louisville. By expanding the interstate’s capacity from four to six lanes, this project aims to alleviate traffic congestion while enhancing safety and bolstering economic growth in the region. The work zone stretches from the I-65/I-71 interchange near Frankfort Avenue to the I-71/Zorn Avenue interchange, with plans to keep two lanes open in each direction during peak travel times. Completion of this project is expected by the fall of 2027.
Additional Project Details
This widening initiative is not just about expanding lanes; it includes several crucial enhancements that will benefit local residents and businesses:
- Multi-Use Path: A new path will be built on Zorn Avenue between the I-71/Zorn Avenue interchange and Mellwood Avenue, facilitating better access for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Median Treatment: A new median will be constructed at the Zorn Avenue and Mellwood Avenue intersection to improve safety and traffic management.
- Bridge Reconstruction: The project includes the demolition and reconstruction of the I-71 bridge over Beargrass Creek, alongside a latex overlay on the I-71 bridge over I-64 to extend its service life.
As construction progresses, motorists are advised to pay close attention to updated traffic information and adapt their travel plans to minimize delays.
Related Projects in the Louisville Area
Alongside the I-71 initiative, Louisville is seeing additional significant infrastructure projects:
- I-264 Widening Project: A $130 million project aimed at widening I-264 near the new U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospital, which is anticipated to enhance traffic flow considerably by fall 2027.
- I-65 Corridor Project: This project involves a two-month shutdown of I-65 to rehabilitate or replace nine bridges, with partial capacity expected until March 2027, and completion scheduled for August 2026.
These infrastructural upgrades form part of an ongoing strategy to bolster transportation systems and fuel economic development throughout the region.
Weather Conditions for Travelers
Travelers should also remain aware of weather conditions that could affect travel this week:
- Tuesday, January 13: Becoming cloudy; breezy in the afternoon, High: 57°F (14°C), Low: 42°F (6°C)
- Wednesday, January 14: Cooler; morning rain, transitioning to breezy afternoon snow showers, High: 46°F (8°C), Low: 22°F (-5°C)
- Thursday, January 15: Morning flurries; mainly cloudy, breezy and colder, High: 29°F (-2°C), Low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Friday, January 16: Breezy and not as cold with considerable cloudiness, High: 42°F (5°C), Low: 29°F (-2°C)
- Saturday, January 17: Colder with intermittent snow and flurries, High: 33°F (1°C), Low: 17°F (-9°C)
- Sunday, January 18: Chilly with a mix of clouds and sun, High: 34°F (1°C), Low: 17°F (-8°C)
- Monday, January 19: Morning snow periods; otherwise, mostly cloudy, High: 34°F (1°C), Low: 11°F (-12°C)
Motorists are advised to monitor weather updates and adjust their travel plans accordingly to ensure safe commutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the specific dates and times for the lane closures on I-71?
The lane closures are scheduled from Monday, January 12, through Wednesday, January 14, with daytime closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and possible overnight closures from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. each day.
What is the purpose of the I-71 widening and improvement project?
The project aims to increase the interstate’s capacity from four to six lanes, easing traffic congestion, improving safety, and supporting economic growth in the region. The work zone extends from the I-65/I-71 interchange near Frankfort Avenue to the I-71/Zorn Avenue interchange. The project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2027.
What additional enhancements are included in the project?
In addition to widening the interstate, the project includes constructing a multi-use path on Zorn Avenue between the I-71/Zorn Avenue interchange and Mellwood Avenue, installing a median at the intersection of Zorn Avenue and Mellwood Avenue to improve safety, and demolishing and reconstructing the I-71 bridge over Beargrass Creek.
Are there other major infrastructure projects affecting Louisville’s roadways?
Yes, other significant projects include the I-264 Widening Project, a $130 million initiative to widen I-264 near the new U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospital, and the I-65 Corridor Project, a two-month shutdown of I-65 in Louisville to replace or rehabilitate nine bridges. Both projects are expected to be completed by fall 2027.
How can I stay informed about traffic impacts and project updates?
Motorists are encouraged to sign up for email or text alerts regarding weekly traffic impacts pertaining to the I-71 project. Additionally, staying updated with local news sources and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s official communications will provide the latest information on road conditions and project progress.
Key Features of the I-71 Widening and Improvement Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Scope | Widening I-71 from four to six lanes over a 2-mile stretch between the I-65/I-71 interchange near Frankfort Avenue and the I-71/Zorn Avenue interchange. |
| Project Cost | $50 million |
| Project Duration | Two years, expected completion by fall 2027 |
| Additional Enhancements | Construction of a multi-use path on Zorn Avenue, installation of a median at the Zorn Avenue and Mellwood Avenue intersection, and reconstruction of the I-71 bridge over Beargrass Creek. |
| Traffic Management | Two lanes in each direction will remain open during peak travel times; intermittent lane closures and overnight closures may occur. |
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