Heads up to anyone planning to traverse the Loop this weekend. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will close all northbound and southbound mainlanes of the Southwest Freeway (69) at the 610 West Loop from 8 pm Friday, April 21 through 5 am Monday, April 24.

These lane closures are part of the 610 West Loop/ I-69 Southwest Freeway interchange project, per TxDOT. Work crews will be placing bridge beams for the new 610 southbound bridge.

Drivers should note that even more ramp closures — including some nightly closures — as part of this weekend work. Closure and detour information can be found at the official I-610 West Loop/ I-69 Southwest Freeway interchange project website.

With that in mind, drivers should expect major delays this weekend and may want to consider an alternate route (or skipping the trip). Police officers will be onsite to assist with traffic control. In short, use Waze wisely.

As CultureMap has reported, the I-69/I-610 interchange project is a $259 million endeavor aimed at significantly enhancing safety and improving mobility by widening the connector ramps to two lanes, increasing sight distances, and providing remedies to eliminate weaving.

Before departing, drivers can get updates at the Houston TranStar website and at the I-610 W. Loop/I-69 SW Freeway Interchange website. Follow the HOU 610 at 69 Twitter page for updates and more information.