Houston drivers, buckle up! If you’re planning to hit the I-45 Gulf Freeway this weekend, you might want to adjust your route and schedule ahead of time. As part of an ongoing TxDOT construction project, the HOV/HOT lane on I-45 will be temporarily out of service starting this Friday, October 11, with a scheduled reopening for the Monday morning inbound commute on October 14 at 5 a.m.

But don’t panic—Houston traffic is always an adventure, right? In true "keep Houston moving" fashion, all other HOV/HOT lanes will remain open, so your commute isn't entirely derailed.

What You Should Know About the Closure:

Closure Time: The I-45 (Gulf Freeway) HOV/HOT lane will close after outbound traffic ends on Friday, October 11, and will reopen just in time for the Monday, October 14 inbound rush hour at 5 a.m..

Alternate Routes: Don't worry, HOV and HOT lanes on other freeways are still open for business. So, if you're looking to shave some time off your drive this weekend, try alternative routes like US-290 or US-59.

How to Stay Updated on the Go

With Houston’s fast-paced vibe, staying up to speed on road conditions is crucial. Fortunately, METRO has you covered with multiple tools for keeping track of your commute:

1. METRO Service Alerts: Get real-time updates by subscribing to METRO’s service alerts system. This ensures you don’t miss any crucial changes in your travel plans.

2. Follow METRO on Social Media: METRO is also quick with updates on their X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook pages. Whether it’s unexpected delays or the latest construction info, they’ll keep you informed on-the-go.

3. RideMETRO App: For a seamless, well-planned trip, the RideMETRO app is your new best friend. Use it to plan alternate routes or adjust your commute based on real-time traffic conditions.

Why the Construction?

While no one loves road closures, this work is part of a larger TxDOT construction project aimed at improving safety, traffic flow, and overall road quality. It’s an inconvenience now, but in the long run, these upgrades are set to make Houston's freeways even smoother (well, we can dream).

Final Thoughts

So, Houston, consider this your friendly reminder to plan ahead this weekend. With a little extra prep time and a good playlist, you’ll be ready to navigate any detours with ease. And who knows? This might even give you the chance to discover a new scenic route across our sprawling city.

For more information and to stay updated, be sure to follow METRO on social media or check out their RideMETRO app. Safe travels, Houston!

To learn more about METRO HOV/HOT lanes, click here.