As of 1:50 p.m., Highway 30, both directions to Ogallala, was still open to local traffic only.
GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KGFW) – Closures of Interstate 80 and US Highway 30 continue to creep eastbound. Jeni Campana, Nebraska Department of Transportation Communications and Public Policy Director, sent us some answers.
How long are Interstate 80 and US Highway 30 closures expected to continue rolling eastbound? What goes into the decision to close in a situation such as this?
The rates of closures rolling east depends entirely on the amount of traffic that continues west and how quickly those areas fill up. Capacity is determined in conjunction with Emergency Management, law enforcement and NDOT and is based not only on hotel rooms but available parking.
How long are the closures expected to last?
Roadways are still impassible in portions of Wyoming and Colorado. While those roads are impassible, closures will help to keep roadways clear and safe. We don’t have an estimated time on how long closures will last.
Is local traffic still able to access the roads?
For local access, travelers are encouraged to use 511.Nebraska.Gov to determine which areas are open to local access. I-80 will remain closed.
What do travelers need to know?
We ask for patience. With the number of travelers along I-80 in Nebraska as well as in Wyoming, once it does open, it will take time for us to open back up safely to get traffic back up to speed.
