MANDEVILLE, La. (WVUE) – Crews brought in heavy equipment today to clear the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which remained closed due to dangerous icy conditions. Officials are hopeful at least one lane will reopen for first responders Thursday afternoon.
Across the North Shore, many roadways were becoming passable, though treacherous patches of black ice continued to threaten drivers. Despite repeated warnings to stay off the roads, more and more vehicles ventured out.
“Obviously, it’s a beautiful day, and a lot of people need to be reminded there’s still thick layers of black ice on the highways,” said Louisiana State Police Troop L Trooper Marc Gremillion.
As the sun shone on the icy streets, major roadways such as U.S. Highway 190 south of Covington gradually became more accessible.
However, some drivers struggled to gain traction, with vehicles fishtailing and skidding.
“It’s scary,” said Rene Hymel of Covington. “I lived in Connecticut and Cleveland, so I have an all-wheel-drive, but there are a lot of icy patches.”
In some cases, drivers took to any available dry patches, leading to near-misses, including a close call between a passenger vehicle and an 18-wheeler near Covington’s Claiborne Hill.
WINTER BLAST
While some roadways improved, others remained slick with ice, leaving those with four-wheel drive at an advantage.
“It’s been really slick and icy, but this truck does good with four-wheel drive,” said Michelle Carey, a certified nurse assistant from Covington. “I’m pretty good with it.”
Carey said she had to brave the hazardous conditions to get to work.
The icy conditions brought many North Shore residents an unexpected day off.
“I’m glad I have a nine- and a 10-year-old,” Hymel added. “They had fun, and I hope everyone stays safe.”
Meanwhile, crews worked diligently at the Causeway to remove hundreds of tons of ice and snow.
Causeway General Manager Carlton Dufrechou said efforts to clear the bridge would continue through the night, with hopes of reopening by tomorrow.
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Causeway officials are working tirelessly to clear the bridge as icy conditions persist. The safety of drivers and commuters is their top priority, and they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure that the bridge is safe for travel.
Crews are working around the clock to salt and sand the bridge, as well as monitor road conditions and treat any trouble spots. Despite their efforts, drivers are urged to exercise caution and drive slowly when crossing the Causeway.
Officials are also urging drivers to stay informed of road conditions and to check for updates before heading out. They are working closely with local authorities to ensure that the bridge remains safe and accessible to all.
As the icy conditions persist, Causeway officials are committed to keeping the bridge clear and safe for travel. Your safety is their top priority, and they are working diligently to ensure that the bridge remains safe for all commuters. Drive safely and stay informed as you travel across the Causeway.
Tags:
- Causeway officials
- Bridge conditions
- Icy conditions
- Causeway updates
- Winter weather
- Traffic advisory
- Road safety
- Bridge maintenance
- Causeway closures
- Emergency response
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