ODOT: Traffic may be clogged gameday, Labor Day weekend

OKLAHOMA CITY ( KFOR ) – Friday is the start to the Labor Day weekend and the first football night of the season. That means it’s a double whammy for traffic.

“This is a double header for us,” said Bryce Boyer with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT).

ODOT said the roads will likely be packed this weekend. ODOT said that means the roads are going to be packed. Plan extra time and know about the construction zones.

You can easily prepare through ODOT’s traffic website or it’s app, Drive Oklahoma.

Like I-40 and Douglas. It’s a sea of red dirt, traffic cones, and ramp closures if you’re coming to the metro from the East.

Along northbound I-35 and I-44, near the Adventure District, you’ll be directed through narrowed lanes and ramps.

Don’t forget about the I-35 and I-240 project, impacting those driving in all directions. You may see the construction while driving to Norman for OU’s first SEC football game.

“The population of Norman essentially doubles during game days,” said Capt. Gary Hopcus, with Norman Police.

If you’re going to Norman from the south, driving north on I-35, you’ll run into construction near Highway 9.

“The road might be narrowed, you might see some shifts and some speed reductions in place,” said Boyer.

If you’re driving south, down I-35, coming into Norman along Flood St. be sure to pay attention. The speed limit reduces from 55 mph to 25 mph in about a half-mile distance. Also, expect a roundabout.

Police also don’t want you to take shortcuts, especially though residential areas and one-way streets. Those can get clogged.

“Stay on those main roads,” said Capt. Hopcus.

Something you should also know, is the city turns Lindsey St. into a one-way street from Berry to the Stadium. After they play ball, traffic will go the other direction.

Then come Saturday, if you’re headed to OSU, know ODOT is working on a widening project along Highway 33 near Langston, east of I-35.

The good news is the construction Cowboys drove through along Highway 51 last year has since wrapped up.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.