Expect detours from downtown to I-45 North

A section of the Katy Freeway westbound connector ramp to Interstate 45 North in downtown will be closed for repairs for 10 days beginning this week, TxDOT officials said.

One of the oldest bridge structures in TxDOT's Houston district, the repairs will correct a connector that has moved slightly out of place.

Specialized crews will lift a part of the connector with large cranes, and then rotate it back into place. Once in place, additional repairs will be made to strengthen the structure.

The repairs are much needed, says TxDOT. The hot summers and winters have allowed the bridge structure to contract and expand over time, which allowed the span of the bridge to rotate. At first, the rotation wasn't as big, but it needs to be put back in place to prevent it from becoming a hazard to motorists.

The connector ramp on I-10 and the Travis Street ramp to I-45 will be closed at 9 p.m. Friday through 5 a.m. Feb. 20.

Additionally, a right lane on Travis northbound between Commerce and Girard streets will be closed.

Motorists trying to get on I-45 North from I-10 will be detoured to the Heights Boulevard exit, where they can take a left to get on I-10 East to access I-45 North.

HOV lanes will not be affected.

louis.casiano@chron.com