Tiki Island Traffic is Rerouted as the I-45 North Entry Ramp Closure Begins Today

If you’re commuting around Tiki Island, expect some major traffic changes starting today. The northbound entrance ramp to Interstate 45 (I-45) in front of Oceans Cabaret has been officially closed. This closure is part of a larger project aimed at improving traffic flow in the long run, but for now, drivers will need to adjust to new routes and detours.

Here’s everything you need to know to navigate these changes smoothly.

Why Is the Ramp Closed?

The closure is part of a construction project to deconstruct the existing entrance ramp and make way for a new traffic configuration. The goal is to improve long-term travel efficiency on I-45, especially for commuters heading northbound.

According to CW39 and updates from Galveston County’s official Facebook page, this is just the beginning, with more closures and lane shifts scheduled in the coming days.

Detour Details for Northbound Drivers

With the ramp closed, drivers will need to follow a detour route:

1. Continue straight on the northbound frontage road.
2. Drive until you reach State Highway 146 (SH-146).
3. Make a U-turn at the intersection of SH-146 and State Loop 197.
4. Merge onto the northbound lanes of I-45 at the Texas City Wye.

This detour may add a few extra minutes to your commute, so plan accordingly.

Weekend Closures: February 7-8

Be prepared for additional disruptions during the weekend of February 7-8:

• Closures start: Friday at 9:00 p.m.
• Expected delays: Lane closures will cause more detours and slowdowns.

If possible, consider alternate routes during this time to avoid congestion.

How to Get to Tiki Island from Galveston

If you’re heading to Tiki Island from Galveston, here’s the new route:

1. Drive past your usual exit to FM 519.
2. Make a U-turn at FM 519.
3. Head south on I-45 and take Exit #4—this will get you back to Tiki Island.

While this may seem inconvenient, it’s the best option until construction is complete.

Leaving Tiki Island (Northbound Travel)

If you’re leaving Tiki Island and heading northbound, you’ll need to:

1. Detour into Galveston first.
2. Loop back onto the main northbound lanes of I-45.

The familiar entrance and exit ramps that locals use will remain open for now, which should help ease some of the traffic stress.

What’s the End Goal?

Once the construction wraps up, the northbound frontage road will become the main route for all northbound traffic. The upgrades aim to:

• Improve traffic flow
• Reduce congestion
• Enhance overall road safety

While the temporary detours may be frustrating, the long-term benefits are expected to make commuting much smoother.

Stay Updated on Traffic Changes

For real-time updates on traffic changes, closures, and emergency notifications:

• Visit: GCOEM.org
• Follow: Galveston County’s official Facebook page

Staying informed will help you avoid unexpected delays and plan your routes effectively.

The closure of the northbound entrance ramp to I-45 near Tiki Island marks the start of significant traffic changes designed to improve travel in the long term. While the detours may cause temporary inconvenience, the final upgrades will enhance traffic flow and road safety. Make sure to follow the new routes, plan for extra travel time, and check for updates regularly to stay ahead of any changes.

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