Traffic changes part of Loop 88 construction

LUBBOCK - Next Wednesday, October 7, Avenues U and P, in the Loop 88 Phase 3C projects limits, will be converted to all-way stop intersections; weather permitting. Message boards are in place alerting drivers of the upcoming traffic changes.

"Currently, northbound Avenue U traffic does not have access to westbound FM 1585," said Joe Villalobos, P.E., TxDOT Lubbock Area Engineer. "Plans directly connecting U traffic to FM 1585 and implementing an all-way stop at both the U and P intersections are designed to keep traffic flowing steadily, allow crews to begin work on constructing the Loop 88 frontage road and improve safety."

Additional traffic changes include work to restripe the roadway from Avenue P to Avenue U- converting the segment of road back to two-way traffic-and removing the eastbound pavement between P and U.

"The traffic changes require the Avenue U crossover to reopen," Villalobos said. "Drivers traveling north on Avenue U will need to stop at the eastbound frontage road and again at the north end of the crossover before connecting with either west- or eastbound FM 1585."

Drivers are urged to stay alert and watch out for slow moving construction equipment, follow the posted speed limit, should expect delays, and are encouraged to seek alternate routes around the work zone.

The traffic changes are part of a project to rebuild FM 1585 from a rural, two-lane roadway into Loop 88, a six-lane freeway with frontage roads, bridges and ramps. Construction on Phase 3C is expected to be completed in fall 2031.