DOTD announced the southbound side of Interstate 55 in Saint John the Baptist Parish has reopened following the massive vehicle pileup involving 168 vehicles that killed at least eight people and injured 63 people. Spokesperson Rodney Mallet says inspectors have determined the majority of the southbound portion of the roadway is safe for travel.
“There is an area bout 400 yards or so where the crash site occurred that will remain closed so it will go to one lane in that area.”
Specialized equipment such as a ground penetrating radar was used as part of the inspection process.
Mallet says inspectors continue to assess damage to the bridge on the northbound portion of Interstate 55. He says areas on the northbound portion had to be cleaned before inspection.
“All the debris is off. And from what I understand they spent most of the day yesterday removing sand and other absorbent materials that was used to soak up the oil and the gas and other liquids in sight.”
Traffic will merge to one lane at the crash site near the Manchac exit. Mallet urges motorists traveling on the southbound portion to plan ahead.
“If you can leave early or stagger your work schedule that’s always a good thing. Also, use a travel app that will give you a path of least resistance. And to be patient with the people out there riding with you.”
There is no timetable for reopening the northbound lanes at this time.
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