This weekend, if you're planning to travel along I-55 through St. John and Tangipahoa Parishes, you might want to give yourself some extra time. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced that the northbound and southbound right shoulders of I-55 will be under a moving operation for tree trimming activities. This work is scheduled to take place from the US 51 Overpass (Exit 23) to the Laplace Exit (Exit 1), beginning at 6 am through 7 pm, on Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, as long as the weather permits.
The good news for drivers is that both lanes will remain open to traffic in both directions during the tree trimming operation. There's no need to worry about restrictions, for oversized loads either, as no such constraints have been announced. Still, a detour is available for those who prefer to avoid the work zone altogether, motorists may use the US 51 Service Rd. (Low Rd.) as an alternative route.
Safety is, naturally a concern for DOTD during operations like these. They have issued a reminder for all who traverse this stretch of I-55: "DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment." It's a simple request, but one that's exceedingly important for the protection of the work crews as well as your fellow drivers.
