TxDOT Urges Motorists to Avoid I-45 To Galveston Island
Save Email Print
TxDOT Urges Motorists to Avoid I-45 To Galveston Island
The Texas Department of Transportation Wednesday urged motorists to stay off the southbound I-45 Gulf Freeway, where traffic backed up for a second day as residents tried without success to return to Galveston.
(Photo by Patsy Lynch/FEMA)
Font Size:

(September 17, 2008)-- The Texas Department of Transportation Wednesday urged motorists to stay off the southbound I-45 Gulf Freeway, where traffic backed up for a second day as residents tried without success to return to Galveston.

Galveston officials Tuesday briefly instituted a “look and leave” policy that allowed some residents to return briefly to the island to inspect their homes, but rescinded the policy after traffic backed up, impeding the flow of emergency supplies and assistance.

The Gulf Freeway is closed south of FM 519, where the Texas Department of Public Safety is manning a checkpoint.

A dedicated lane has been established for emergency crews, essential workers, utility crews, contractors and delivery vehicles, TxDOT said.

"Motorists should be mindful that those who decide to try to venture south on IH 45 despite the warning not to do so will inevitably experience very long traffic waits only to be turned around once reaching the checkpoint. Fueling options and resources are very minimal at best and due to traffic delays the needed resources to try to provide such relief are being significantly delayed" said Raquelle Lewis, TxDOT Public Information Supervisor.

The only motorists who are being allowed to proceed past the DPS checkpoint are residents of Bayou Vista and Tiki Island.

Central Texas Needs

Texas Governor’s Office

FEMA

FEMA Disaster Help

Family Registry and Locator System

Red Cross Safe & Well Site

Donate To Texas Responds

Donate To The Red Cross

Donate To The Salvation Army


Video
KWTX.com Features
Double Dollar Deals
Half Price Deals at Central Texas restaurants and businesses. A new deal every Thursday at 7:00am.
Boss of the Month
Who is Central Texas’ best boss? Nominate your supervisor for Boss of the Month!
Golden Apple
Your chance to nominate an outstanding teacher. Find out how they are making a difference in classrooms.
Emily Wants to Know
Emily Matthews' inquisitive look at life in Central Texas.
Army Way
Learn all about the symbols, traditions, and customs of the US Army.
Job of the Week
Click now to see hundreds of other jobs on Job Board TV!


Emergency Room Nurse - Join Metroplex Health System in Killeen as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department. Metroplex offers a very competitive hourly wage, comprehensive health coverage and retirement plans. A new pay scale went in to effect in October 09! Join Metroplex in extending the healing ministry of Christ.

Also, take a look at the most recent jobs posted to Job Board TV at KWTX.com:
View More Jobs.
AP Video