Highway safety within construction areas has emerged as a critical issue after last month’s deadly 18-vehicle collision on the northbound stretch of I-35 close to Howard and Parmer Lanes. According to reports from the National Transportation Safety Board, the accident happened in an area where traffic was funneled down to just one lane due to roadwork activities. This incident led to five fatalities and approximately twelve people being injured. Currently, investigations into this matter continue.
Adam Greenfield, who leads advocacy efforts for Safe Streets Austin, characterized the event as "one of the most distressing and shocking collision occurrences we have witnessed in a long while."
Beginning this evening, the primary lanes of northbound Interstate 35 from Rundberg Lane to U.S. Highway 183 will experience restrictions or closures during the week due to drainage operations, as reported by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Greenfield voiced worries regarding the safety of construction areas along I-35.
"TxDOT continues to work on the highway, constantly extending it, which leads to these unforeseeable circumstances where people are entering at high velocities," he stated.
ADDENDUM | Texas highway safety measures scrutinized following deadly I-35 collisions
Brad Wheelis, a TxDOT representative, could not be reached for direct comments; however, he previously spoke with CBS Austin, recommending that drivers should "reduce their speed, adapt their driving to current road conditions within construction zones, and ensure they maintain a safe following distance."
"Traffic flow may vary. The width of lanes might differ too. Additionally, the road surface could be inconsistent within these areas,” he mentioned further. “Simply because your route through the construction site was consistent for five consecutive days last week does not guarantee identical setups or features this week.”
Jay Blazek Crossley, who leads Farm & City as their Executive Director, recommended that motorists circumvent work zone difficulties by choosing detours instead.
He mentioned that driving at low speeds on neighborhood roads is more secure compared to moving on the highway. He also noted that using public transportation, walking, or cycling is safer than being inside a vehicle.
The lane restrictions and closures are set to start at approximately 8 p.m. today and will last until Saturday, with operations restarting on Friday, April 25th.