It's time prepare for delays, step on brakes, and quietly curse. Commuters have no doubt noticed that crews have begun work on the SH 288 project that will significantly impact the area around Southmore Blvd. in Houston’s Historic Third Ward, not far from the Medical Center.

Planners have implemented a series of weekend closures to facilitate the complete demolition of the existing Southmore bridge and the reconstruction of a new bridge.

Closure No. 1

Dates: Friday, April 20, 2018, at 9 pm – Monday, April 23, 2018, at 5 am

What to expect:
Noise: Full demolition of the existing Southmore bridge will occur on this weekend. Residents in the area should expect loud noises from the collapse of the structure.

Total closures: The frontage road lanes of SH 288 at Southmore Blvd. will be completely closed. The on-ramps and off-ramps leading to Southmore Blvd. will only be accessible for through-traffic. Police will be directing traffic in this area. Access to the frontage road near Southmore Blvd. will be prohibited at these locations:

Northbound: Prospect St, Oakdale St, Southmore St., and Wichita St.
Southbound: Wentworth Ave, Arbor St, Rosedale St., Wichita St., Southmore Blvd. and Oakdale St.

Last chance exit:
From the north: Binz St. will be the last exit drivers can utilize prior to I-59 before hitting the heavy construction area at Southmore.
From the south: Tuam St. will be the last exit for drivers before hitting the heavy construction area at Southmore.

Additional signage: Signs will be posted for drivers to alert them of the construction in the area. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert in these areas and look for directional signage.

Closure No. 2
Dates: Beginning Monday, April 23, 2018, at 5 am (Duration: 12 to 18 months)

What to expect:
Access to the frontage road will be reopened. The Southmore bridge will remain closed for the reconstruction of the bridge.

Multi-highway construction projects are occurring simultaneously in the Houston Metro area, so TxDOT and the Drive288 Project want to stress to travelers to #KnowBeforeYouGo. Check social media feeds and local news stations for traffic advisories before heading to destinations, or visit the Drive 288 project.

Commuters should plan for delays with demolition of the Southmore bridge.

Photo courtesy of Drive288

Commuters should plan for delays with demolition of the Southmore bridge.