News Summary
As Baylor University gears up for its football season opener against Auburn, attendees should be prepared for traffic delays due to ongoing construction and road closures near McLane Stadium. Significant disruptions on I-35 and other routes are expected to increase congestion on game day. Fans are advised to plan extra travel time and consider using alternative routes to ensure timely arrival. Additionally, Baylor has partnered with TxDOT to improve traffic management for the event.
Waco Prepares for Baylor Football Season Opener Amid Traffic Disruptions
Waco, Texas — The upcoming Baylor University football season is set to kick off on August 29 with a highly anticipated game against Auburn University. However, fans attending the game should anticipate potential traffic delays due to ongoing construction projects and traffic control changes in the vicinity of McLane Stadium.
Construction and Road Closures Impacting Traffic
Several construction activities on I-35, the primary highway leading to Waco and the stadium, have significantly affected traffic flow since the summer months. Notably, the southbound exit across from Chick-fil-A has been temporarily closed, and multiple lane closures have been implemented south of the Baylor campus. These modifications aim to facilitate infrastructure upgrades but have inadvertently increased congestion during peak times.
Estimated Traffic Increase on Game Day
According to recent estimates from the university’s senior associate athletics director, Drew Pittman, the arrival of football season is expected to cause a noticeable rise in traffic volume around game day. With the traditional surge in fans arriving early to participate in tailgating and pre-game activities, authorities anticipate the roads will be busier than usual. Fans traveling to McLane Stadium are advised to plan for additional travel time and consider using alternative routes to avoid delays.
Recommended Alternative Routes and Access Points
University leadership, including Waco President Linda Livingstone, recommends fans use secondary routes during the game night. These include La Salle Avenue and Loop 340, which provide access to I-35 and other Waco areas while bypassing the primary construction zones. Utilizing these routes can help alleviate congestion on main highways and ensure timely arrival at the stadium.
Other Infrastructure Projects May Affect Traffic
In addition to the I-35 construction, a sewer relocation project along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, situated west of I-35, could contribute to traffic adjustments during the game weekend. Authorities are monitoring these projects closely and working with transportation agencies to minimize disruptions.
Traffic Management and Coordination Efforts
To enhance traffic flow for the event, Baylor University has partnered with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to implement temporary traffic control plans. These strategies are designed to improve entry and exit points around McLane Stadium and reduce bottlenecks during high-traffic periods.
Advice for Fans and Visitors
Fans are strongly encouraged to arrive early to participate in pre-game tailgating and to avoid last-minute rushes that could lead to delays. Additionally, staying informed about real-time traffic updates can help attendees make informed decisions about routes and departure times. The City of Waco provides ongoing updates on road closures and traffic conditions through its official website, which is recommended for all visitors planning to attend game day.
Additional Context and Background
The recent infrastructure projects in Waco reflect ongoing efforts to improve transportation and safety in the area, particularly as the city prepares for a busy football season. These developments are part of broader urban enhancements aimed at supporting the influx of spectators and ensuring a positive game day experience. Fans are advised to plan accordingly and stay aware of the evolving road conditions to enjoy the season opener without unnecessary delays.
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Additional Resources
- Baylor Lariat: Baylor Football Fans Face Roadblock I-35 Construction
- KCEN: Construction to Cause Major Gameday Traffic in Waco
- KXXV: Traffic Alert Races Set for Cameron Park and Downtown Waco Saturday
- Wikipedia: Waco, Texas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waco
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