News

Major I-45 Traffic Changes: Tiki Island Ramp Closure & Detours

I-45 Construction Traffic Tiki Island Ramp Closure

As part of ongoing infrastructure improvements, significant changes are underway affecting Tiki Island residents and commuters along Interstate 45 (I-45). These developments aim to enhance traffic flow and safety in our community.

Temporary Closure of Northbound Entrance Ramp

On Monday, February 3, 2025, the temporary entrance ramp to northbound I-45, located in front of Oceans Cabaret, was closed. This closure allows contractors to dismantle the existing ramp and implement necessary traffic control measures in preparation for an upcoming traffic switch.

Detour Instructions

During this closure, drivers seeking to access the I-45 northbound main lanes should proceed straight on the northbound frontage road to State Highway 146 (SH-146). At the intersection of SH-146 and State Loop 197 (SL-197), make a U-turn and stay to the right to utilize the existing entrance ramp to I-45 northbound at the Texas City Wye.

Upcoming Main Lane Traffic Switch

A significant traffic switch is scheduled for the weekend of February 7-8, 2025, with lane closures beginning at 9:00 PM on Friday, February 7. During this period, both the I-45 northbound Exit Ramp (Exit #4) and the northbound entrance ramp will be closed to facilitate the installation of traffic control devices.

Accessing Tiki Island During Closures

  • From Galveston to Tiki Island: Northbound travelers from Galveston should continue to FM 519, execute a U-turn at the FM 519 intersection, and then travel southbound on I-45 to Exit #4 to reach Tiki Island.

  • From Tiki Island to Houston: Drivers departing Tiki Island toward Houston must use the southbound entrance ramp to I-45, proceed into Galveston, take the Harborside Exit ramp, perform a U-turn at Harborside, and then enter the I-45 northbound main lanes.

Completion of Traffic Switch

Upon completion of the traffic switch, all northbound I-45 main lane traffic will be redirected to the newly constructed northbound frontage road. The current northbound entrance and exit ramps will remain operational.

Stay Informed

To remain updated on these developments and other local news, consider signing up for notifications at GCOEM.org. Staying informed will help you navigate these changes safely and efficiently.

These infrastructure improvements are designed to enhance travel efficiency and safety for Tiki Island residents and commuters. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this period of transition.

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