Indiana officials say that potholes have become such a problem on one interstate that they’ll be dramatically reducing the recommended speed limit this weekend.
Starting on Thursday, February 7, the recommended speed limit on a stretch of I-69 north of Indianapolis will be reduced from 70 m.p.h. to just 45 m.p.h. The speed limit decrease will be on the 14 miles of I-69 between mile markers 220 to 234 from now through Sunday.
Indiana transportation officials are warning that that the 14 mile stretch of interstate has become nearly impassible and they are asking drivers who are able to seek alternate routes.
Troopers reporting most of tire bursting potholes are in passing lanes of I-69 NB and SB Anderson to Daleville-Watch for service and tow trucks through the area MAX SPEED 45MPH!! Watch for patching crews working in the rain to repair the road today!!
— Sgt. John Bowling (@ISPPendleton) February 7, 2019
The decision to lower the speed limit came after nearly 30 drivers called Indiana State Police asking for assistance with either flat tires or wheel damage caused by the potholes on I-69.
Here’s a look at what caused at least 10 drivers to get flat tires on I-65 SB near 71st St. ISP will keep blocking the right lane until INDOT gets here and patches the pothole. #NewsTracker #Daybreak8 pic.twitter.com/nI6D01IKl6
— Kevin Ratermann (@Kevin_Ratermann) February 7, 2019
Indiana State Police say that the right lanes of both directions of the interstate will soon close so road crews can start the process of patching the potholes.
Troopers say that weather conditions are opening up new potholes and that road crews are at work fighting the problem but that they’re having a tough time keeping up.
The Indiana Department of Transportation is asking drivers to “use caution, slow down and watch for traffic back-ups, lane closures and workers as they repair the potholes through the area.”
Troopers are having to lead drivers through I-69 near Anderson like a pace car driver at the 500. There are so many potholes!MORE INFO: http://bit.ly/2SiR8ti
Posted by Randy Ollis on Thursday, February 7, 2019