News Summary
As fans prepare for the Baylor football season opener against Auburn, the city of Waco warns of potential traffic delays due to ongoing construction. Significant work on I-35 and lane closures, including a critical exit, are expected to disrupt travel. In response, city officials recommend alternative routes to navigate these challenges. Collaborations with the Texas Department of Transportation aim to improve traffic flow on game day, ensuring fans have a smoother experience as they head to McLane Stadium for the much-anticipated game.
Baylor Football Season Opener on Aug. 29 Faces Potential Traffic Delays Due to Ongoing Construction
Waco is gearing up for the Baylor football season opener on August 29 against Auburn, but fans should prepare for potential traffic delays as ongoing construction continues to affect routes leading to McLane Stadium. The combination of increased traffic and various lane closures means that attendees may encounter unexpected obstacles on their way to the highly anticipated game.
Since summer, significant construction work south of Baylor on I-35 has already led to heightened traffic conditions. Senior Associate Athletics Director Drew Pittman has acknowledged that game day traffic is likely to surge due to the kickoff of the football season, prompting advice for fans to allow extra time for their travels and consider using alternate routes to avoid delays.
One of the notable construction points includes lane closures on I-35, specifically the southbound exit across from Chick-fil-A, which has recently been closed. This exit closure may further complicate access to the stadium for many attendees. In recognition of these challenges, Waco President Linda Livingstone has also noted the impact of the I-35 construction on the upcoming game day and has recommended alternative routes for drivers.
Recommended Routes and Traffic Management
Livingstone suggests that fans consider using La Salle Avenue or Loop 340 to better navigate to I-35 or other areas of Waco during game night. These routes may provide smoother travel options given the construction disruptions along the primary thoroughfares leading to the stadium.
In addition to the construction on I-35, there is an ongoing sewer relocation project on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, situated west of the interstate, which may also influence traffic patterns and access during the game. The city is making considerable efforts to manage the impacts of these construction projects, ensuring that fans can arrive at the stadium with minimal inconvenience.
Collaboration for Efficient Game Day Flow
Baylor University has partnered with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to enhance traffic control measures and facilitate efficient entry and exit to the stadium on game day. These modifications aim to mitigate delays and help fans have a smoother experience as they travel to see the season opener.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early to the stadium, which allows them to participate in pre-game tailgating events. Early arrival not only helps avoid the expected traffic build-up but also enhances the overall game day experience by fostering camaraderie and friendships among attendees.
As the August 29 game approaches, those planning to attend are reminded to stay informed about ongoing traffic conditions. Updated road closures and traffic information can be found on the City of Waco’s website, ensuring fans have the most accurate details to plan their journeys effectively.
With the excitement of a new football season on the horizon, fans are urged to be prepared for any potential delays, allowing for a stress-free arrival and an enjoyable game day experience at McLane Stadium.
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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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