Icy Side Streets Trigger JCPS NTI Day; Major Construction Continues on I-71 and I-264

Morning Commute Overview

Louisville commuters are facing a frigid and potentially slick start this Friday, January 30, 2026. Following the recent impacts of Winter Storm Fern, the city continues to manage the aftermath of ice and freezing temperatures. While major arteries and interstates are reported to be in good condition, the lingering ice on neighborhood side streets and secondary roads has prompted Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) to move to a Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) day for today. Motorists are advised to use extreme caution in residential areas where pavement remains hazardous.

Weather and Road Conditions

As of early this morning, the temperature in Louisville is approximately 20°F, with wind chills making it feel like 12°F. While no new snow is expected today, the sub-freezing temperatures mean that any moisture or slush on the ground has likely refrozen. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has deployed crews to address slick spots, but they remind drivers that bridges and overpasses freeze first. Highs are only expected to reach the lower 20s, so little natural melting will occur on shaded neighborhood streets.

Major Interstate and Bridge Alerts

Several significant infrastructure projects are currently impacting flow on Louisville’s interstates:

• I-71 Widening: Temporary daytime lane closures are active on I-71 North and South between the I-65 interchange and Zorn Avenue. Traffic has been shifted to the outside shoulders to allow for median work as part of the $50 million improvement project.
• I-264 & U.S. 42 (Brownsboro Road): Construction on the new Single-Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) is in a heavy phase. Eastbound U.S. 42 is reduced to one lane through the Rudy Lane intersection. Additionally, expect lane shifts on the U.S. 42 bridge over I-264 due to ongoing median removal.
• I-65 South (Kennedy Bridge): The ramp from I-65 South to I-64 West remains closed through the end of January for expansion joint replacement. The right three lanes of the Kennedy Bridge are also restricted, which may cause significant backup during peak morning hours.
• I-64 Bridge Work: Near Exit 10 (Cannons Lane) and the I-264 interchange, bridge replacement work is resulting in intermittent daily and nightly lane closures.

Local Roadworks and Detours

• Chenoweth Lane (KY 1932): A major improvement project is underway between Shelbyville Road and Brownsboro Road. Commuters should expect delays and flaggers through the fall of 2026.
• Oak and Preston Streets: This intersection remains closed for a Louisville Water Company pipe replacement project. Detours are in place, though local access to businesses is being maintained.
• River Road: Eastbound River Road between Second and Third streets remains closed for work related to the KFC Yum! Center roof replacement.

Public Transport and TARC Updates

TARC has confirmed that most bus routes are operating on normal schedules, though some delays should be expected for lines running through icy neighborhood corridors. While TARC is preparing for a massive network redesign in August 2026, there are no major route changes today. Riders should be aware that TARC is currently concluding a series of public meetings regarding proposed fare adjustments, with the final sessions having taken place at Union Station this week.