Commuters faced delays on Saturday morning as icy conditions forced the temporary closure of the elevated Westbank Expressway (US 90B), stretching from Westwood Dr to LA 428 (General De Gaulle Blvd). According to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, teams were dispatched to clear and treat the ice, with anticipation of reopening the road by early afternoon.
The overnight drop in temperatures had left the expressway slick, and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development's advisory highlighted the necessity of closing the road until it was safe for passage. Crews, who were already onsite since the morning hours, were diligently working to manage the wintry road conditions. Despite the inconvenience, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development asked for the public's patience, reminding drivers to exercise caution, especially on elevated surfaces, which are more prone to ice accumulation.
Further, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development affirmed their commitment to public safety, stating that their emergency personnel would continue to "monitor upcoming weather situations and will scout the area for safety on the roadways." Whenever severe weather threatens, they assured that crews will be mobilized to secure affected regions.
Driving in such conditions poses risks, and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has advised motorists to remain particularly vigilant of "crews and their equipment" on the road. Not just for the workers' safety, but for the well-being of everyone on the road.
