Early Morning I-65 Ramp Reopening and Continued I-71 Construction Impacts

Morning Commute Overview
Louisville drivers should prepare for a mix of early morning ramp closures and ongoing long-term construction projects this Wednesday, February 11, 2026. While weather conditions remain favorable with sunny skies, several major arteries are experiencing lane shifts and restricted access due to the multi-year infrastructure overhaul currently underway across the metro area.
Major Interstate Alerts: I-65, I-264, and I-71
- I-65 Northbound to I-264 Eastbound: Commuters heading toward the Watterson Expressway early this morning should note that the off-ramp from Northbound I-65 to Eastbound I-264 was scheduled for closure until 6:00 a.m. While crews expect to have the ramp open for the peak rush, residual slowing is likely as temporary barriers and equipment are moved.
- I-71 Widening Project: Work continues on the $50 million widening of I-71 between Spaghetti Junction and Zorn Avenue. While four lanes typically remain open during peak rush hours, motorists should expect lane shifts and narrower travel paths. Daily lane closures for this project are authorized between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- I-64 Bridge Replacement: Final items for the bridge replacement project near Cannons Lane (Exit 10) and the Watterson Expressway (Exit 12) may cause intermittent nightly or daily lane closures. Traffic is currently in its final configuration, but caution is advised near the work zones.
Local Road Closures and Work Zones
- Blevins Gap Road: The culvert replacement project near Saw Mill Road continues. A portion of the road remains closed to through-traffic, with a signed detour directing motorists to the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265/KY 841). Local access is maintained from Dixie Highway and Stonestreet Road.
- Chenoweth Lane (KY 1932): Expect intermittent lane closures between Shelbyville Road and Brownsboro Road. Crews are active from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily for drainage and sidewalk improvements.
- Main Street (U.S. 31E): The 'Main Remade' project is ongoing in the downtown corridor. Phased construction is impacting various blocks, so drivers should remain alert for shifting lane patterns and pedestrian detours.
- National Turnpike (KY 1020): A northbound right lane closure is in effect near Sam Drive for bridge inspection work.
TARC and Public Transit
The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) reports that all routes are currently operating on regular schedules. Previous winter weather detours have been lifted, and the fleet is running normally. Riders are encouraged to monitor real-time updates for Route 19, which recently resumed full service at 35th and Bohn. TARC is also holding public evaluation periods for proposed fare updates this month; however, no immediate service changes are scheduled for today.
Weather and Road Conditions
With temperatures ranging from 26°F to 47°F and a sunny forecast, road surfaces are expected to be dry and clear of ice. Visibility will be high, but the low winter sun may cause glare during the eastbound morning commute and westbound evening return.