TxDOT closes two additional exit ramps for Harbor Bridge, coordinated DPS enforcement effort in place

CORPUS CHRISTI - The Texas Department of Transportation is closing two additional southbound exit ramps on the Harbor Bridge tonight (Tuesday, March 7) and taking additional steps in its ongoing campaign to deter wrong-way drivers.

TxDOT's latest safety steps include:

• Closure of the southbound Padre Street exit ramp. This closure is in conjunction with work beginning Wednesday to reconfigure the section of Padre Street from North Tancahua Street to Ramirez Street into a one-way, single-lane road.
• Closure of the southbound exit ramp to Upper Broadway.
• Reconfigure a section of the southbound exit ramp to Twigg Street into a one-way, single-lane road.
• Placing additional signs and pavement markings to deter wrong-way drivers.

TxDOT previously closed the southbound Power Street exit ramp to reconfigure it into a one-way, single-lane section and install and upgrade wrong-way signs, striping, and reflective pavement arrows.

Ramp closures will remain in place as TxDOT and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) continue to work with the City of Corpus Christi and other state and local partners to implement additional safety measures to deter wrong-way driving.

Working in coordination with TxDOT, DPS is increasing its enforcement efforts in response to the ongoing traffic dangers involving wrong-way and impaired drivers on the Harbor Bridge. DPS is working diligently with all partners including the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, Corpus Christi Police Department and Portland Police Department on enhanced safety and enforcement operations. DPS Troopers will be looking for drivers who violate the law, including those driving on the wrong side of the road, distracted drivers and those driving under the influence. DPS will also assist with the enforcement of alcohol sales at establishments near the bridge.

DPS offers the following traffic safety tips for all drivers:

• Don’t drink and drive. If you consume alcohol at a place other than your home, designate someone else to drive or take alternate transportation.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
• Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areasor construction zones.
• Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. Also, if you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
• Check your route and know where you’re heading before you hit the road. This is particularly important when traveling in unfamiliar areas. If possible, have a passenger help you navigate so you can concentrate on the road.

For more information, contact Rickey.Dailey@TxDOT.gov 361-808-2544, or Ericka.Miller@dps.texas.gov 512-424-2080.