I-65 Ramp Closures and Wet Roads Highlight Friday Morning Commute

Morning Outlook: I-65 and Watterson Expressway Construction

Commuters heading through the I-65 and I-264 (Watterson Expressway) interchange this Friday, March 6, 2026, should prepare for shifting traffic patterns. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is currently in the final stages of a preliminary phase for the I-65 Central Corridor project. Crews are actively widening and restriping interstate ramps to increase capacity before the major summer closures begin.

Drivers should pay close attention to the off-ramps leading to the Kentucky Fairgrounds and the Watterson Expressway. While most of the heavy work is performed overnight, restriped lanes and temporary barrier walls may cause minor merging delays during the morning rush. This specific phase of the project is slated for completion by the end of March, provided weather conditions remain favorable.

Major Local Road Closures and Detours

Several significant road closures remain in effect across the Louisville metro area today:

• Rudy Lane: A total closure remains in place between Brownsboro Road and Merrifield Road for a water main relocation project. This closure is scheduled to last through mid-April, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes.
• South Third Street: Vehicle traffic remains blocked between River Road and Main Street due to the ongoing roof replacement at the KFC Yum! Center. This long-term closure affects access to the downtown riverfront.
• Mockingbird Valley Road and Edith Road: Both roads remain closed between River Road and Mellwood Avenue as part of infrastructure improvements.
• Rufer Avenue: The alleyway behind the 1300 block of Rufer Avenue is restricted for retaining wall construction.

Public Transit and TARC Updates

The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) reminds all passengers that the new fare schedule officially took effect earlier this week on March 2, 2026. Riders should ensure their accounts are updated or have the correct fare ready before boarding. While no major routing changes are scheduled for today, TARC is operating on regular weekday schedules with all winter weather detours lifted.

Commuters should also be aware that planning is well underway for the "New TARC Network," which is set to launch later this year in August. No service reductions related to that plan are active today, but riders are encouraged to review upcoming frequency changes on high-demand corridors like Dixie Highway and Broadway.

Commuter Advice for Friday

With considerable cloudiness and occasional rain showers forecast for the area, road surfaces may be slick, particularly on the I-65 bridges. The Sherman Minton Bridge is currently open with all six lanes available, though the Transportation Cabinet occasionally schedules brief single-lane closures for routine inspections. Always allow extra following distance in wet conditions and keep an eye on digital message boards for any sudden incidents on the Gene Snyder Freeway.