LAS VEGAS - Drivers on U.S. 95 in the northwest valley can expect traffic headaches this weekend. The Nevada Department of Transportation has shut down U.S. 95 at Cheyenne Avenue in both directions. The Cheyenne Bridge is also closed in both directions.
Construction along U.S. 95 is providing non-stop work for the Nevada Department of Transportation. Crews are working on the U.S. 95 Northwest Corridor Improvements Project.
Part of the Cheyenne Bridge will be demolished this weekend. The work is too dangerous for drivers to be nearby, so drivers face detours once again.
Drivers Amy Niedert and Paul Hewelt had no idea NDOT was closing U.S. 95 at Cheyenne.
"I think it's already a mess. It's going to be a worse mess," Niedert said.
"You mentioned it to us. We just walked over here to go to the restaurant, and now we're informed," Hewelt said.
Fearing gridlock and long delays that plagued previous closures along U.S. 95, they will stay away from the highway at Cheyenne.
"Tomorrow morning, rush hour traffic is going to be a disaster," Niedert said.
Others aren't worried. "Minor inconvenience, there are so many different routes folks," said driver Chris Brownwood. "Just find some other way to go to work, and everything will be great. Plus, it's a weekend."
The U.S. 95 Northwest Corridor Improvements Project will add lanes to the 95. It's a five-phase project from Washington Avenue to Kyle Canyon Road. The final phase is scheduled to end in 2018.
Ultimately, NDOT promises decreased congestion, improved commute times and enhanced freeway operations.
"We've seen a lot of closures up here, and it's hectic for the traffic flow and for businesses as well," said driver Dave Jackson.
Las Vegas drivers notice a trend.
"It's never-ending," Hewelt said.
"It's always ongoing," Niedert added. "If it's not right here, it's somewhere else right down the road."
NDOT urges drivers along U.S. 95 near Cheyenne to consider alternate routes. Detour routes could include Gowan Road, Alexander Road, and Craig Road north of Cheyenne and Smoke Ranch Road and Lake Mead Boulevard to the south.
The freeway closure is scheduled until Monday at 5 a.m.
