Driving in Waco is Seriously Ridiculous These Days

Construction on the highways has been happening for decades, and I don't think anyone really knows when anything will be complete.

I grew up in Waco my entire life, and for awhile Wacoans thought that Temple construction was far worse than Waco's. Well, Temple construction has been long over, but Waco is just getting worse by the looks of things.

This past weekend I decided to head to town for a night out with my best friend for her birthday. We decided to meet at a mutual friend's apartment, and getting there was anything but easy! Before I moved to Temple, I was living in the Baylor bubble. I considered myself pretty savvy when it came to detours and avoiding traffic. I guess I spent too much time away from the city, because this trip had me circling all over the place.

There should basically be a sign that tells you not to enter South Waco or Downtown Waco at all. That whole side of town is just undergoing highway construction, with more construction and closures coming.

According to a report from the WacoTrib:

"The Texas Department of Transportation plans to close all lanes of Business 77 where they cross under Interstate 35 next week to remove the northbound I-35 overpass. Eastbound Business 77 will be closed from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday. Westbound Business 77 will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Eastbound drivers on Business 77 will be directed to the southbound frontage road where they can turn around at Forrest Street. Westbound drivers on Business 77 will be directed to the northbound frontage road where they can turn around at Waco Drive/U.S. 84."

To avoid closures be sure to visit, DriveTexas, which aims to update drivers on Highway conditions. You are not advised to look at this site while driving.

Personally I had to turn on Google Maps to figure my way around my very own hometown with all the detours and closures. I'd hate to be a tourist right now.

Safe travels out there! With the rain and construction, anything can happen, so please stay alert.