Delays, detours for truckers during Olympics

Feb. 5, 2002
Truckers can expect delays and detours while traveling through Utah during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, but the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT)

Truckers can expect delays and detours while traveling through Utah during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, but the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is providing information drivers will need to navigate Utah during this busy month, according to the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association.

One major concern of UDOT is the Interstate 80 corridor through Parley's Canyon where truckers will experience major traffic congestion from February 8-24 with the heaviest traffic expected February 9-12, 14, and 21. If at all possible, UDOT advises long-haul truckers to completely avoid northern Utah during the Olympics by using I-70 for interstate travel. Truckers also can use I-84 as an alternate route. If drivers must travel the I-80 corridor, schedules should be adjusted to travel eastbound in the afternoons and westbound in the mornings.

Truckers who do not travel during the recommended times, may find it takes three or four times the normal amount of time to travel through the area.

UDOT's Know Before You Go program provides motorists and truckers with information necessary to get around during the Olympics. There are several transportation information resources available highlighting detailed information about road closures and restrictions, along with suggested routes and travel times.

The Official Olympic Transportation Guide contains maps and information crucial to travel during the Olympics. These guides are available at all of Utah's Port of Entry stations. A large quantity of the guides can be obtained by contacting UDOT at (801) 965-4000. Visit www.utahcommuterlink.com for up-to-the minute road information, maps, and for signing up for e-mail alerts notifying of specific traffic, road, and weather conditions.

A half-mile section of Pioneer Road, between 2000 South and 2800 West (on the SR 201 Frontage Road), is temporarily closed to facilitate transportation operations. The closure runs January 15 through February 26. Detours include traveling westbound on SR 201 and exiting at the Bangerter or Redwood Road Exits, or taking the I-215 north cutoff and exiting at California Avenue.

Other road closings include 100 S from 300 W to 400 W; 200 S from W Temple to 200 W. Local business access will remain in place.

400 W from S Temple to 100 S is closed. Detour signs direct motorists to the Gateway.

500 S from State St to W Temple, left parking lane and one left travel lane restricted.

Southbound Main St from 500 to 600 S is closed.

Southbound W Temple from S Temple to 200 S is closed. The Crossroads Mall parking lot SB exit to W Temple will remain open.

Northbound W Temple from 500 to 650 S is restricted to one lane. 600 S from W Temple to Main St has one left parking lane and one left lane restricted

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