TxDOT prepares for increased traffic on ‘Eclipse Day’

With just a week left until the solar eclipse, an estimated one million individuals are anticipated to travel to and through Texas to witness the eclipse in totality.

TxDOT is advising residents in the areas of totality to refuel over the weekend and brace themselves for heavy traffic on Monday.

Approximately 480 miles of Texas fall within the “path of totality,” leading to an influx of eclipse tourism and congested highways.

Ensuring road accessibility and traffic flow is TxDOT’s top priority, requiring heightened planning and workforce.

Equipped with necessary tools and traffic signs, crews are prepared to manage traffic and will operate 24-hour emergency operations on Eclipse Day.

Motorists may observe alterations to highway signage, including messages like “No stopping on the highway to view eclipse” and “No parking on the shoulder. Keep moving.”

Adam Hammons, a TxDOT representative, emphasized the importance of refraining from attempting to view the eclipse while driving, highlighting the dangers of distraction and limited vision caused by eclipse glasses.

Additionally, TxDOT crews will suspend certain road construction and maintenance activities on major thoroughfares within the eclipse’s path.