I-10 Closure Forces Traffic Through Woodland Heights, Angering Residents

Construction over the weekend on the Katy Freeway is causing drivers to take alternative routes through nearby streets, irritating residents in Woodland Heights. Workers are fixing the Houston Avenue Bridge, which was struck over 70 times last year by trucks transporting large loads.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) started shutting down eastbound lanes on Interstate 10 on Friday at 9 p.m., and these closures will continue until 5 a.m. on Monday. Eastbound traffic between Shepherd and Durham drives and Houston Avenue is being redirected, requiring all vehicles to exit at Shepherd Drive.

Alternate routes have directed trucks—such as 18-wheelers carrying barrels, boxes, and heavy cargo—into residential areas.

It's just been one 18-wheeler after another," said Mike Cullen, a resident of Woodland Heights. "They're delivering large barrels and crates and all sorts of items onto a neighborhood street.

Cullen mentioned that the noise persisted throughout the night. "Engine sounds, screeching brakes, trailers with faulty braking systems... it's unending," he stated while trucks passed by during an interview.

Footage from the region showed several trucks having difficulty with dead-end roads or streets with limited clearance, requiring three-point turns to return to the highway.

I want to see a real traffic plan," Cullen stated. "They placed a detour sign because trucks can't access the I-10 entrance ramp, but there's no direction on where they should go next.

TxDOT states that the closures are required for bridge maintenance and mentions that various resources—such as highway warning signs—are being utilized to inform motorists. The organization also highlighted that "there are many alternative paths available."

Here's what motorists need to be aware of:

• I-10 eastbound between Shepherd/Durham and Houston Avenue is closed.

• Four of the eastbound lanes on I-10 from Antoine Drive to Shepherd are closed, leaving one lane available for local vehicles.

• The ramps connecting I-610 West Loop to I-10 eastbound are currently closed.

• Northbound and southbound traffic on Houston Avenue at I-10 is closed.

TxDOT has announced alternative routes, guiding drivers to take the West Loop and North Loop to rejoin I-10 heading east. Drivers are encouraged to adhere to signage and plan for additional travel time.

These maintenance efforts serve as a stepping stone for a more extensive renovation initiative. The Houston Avenue Bridge is set to be removed in early 2027 and will be reconstructed to pass beneath I-10 as part of the White Oak Bayou elevation project, designed to lower flood danger and enhance water flow throughout the area.

TxDOT representatives urge drivers to be patient and careful, mentioning that the closures this weekend are only one part of a long-term initiative.

Received a news tip or have an idea for a story? Send us an email atnewstips@khou.comor call 713-521-4310 and provide your name and the most convenient contact method.

Berbagi :