Las Vegas--New Freeway Roadbed

[Fern Modena]

If you've gotten caught in the I-15 mess between Tropicana and "The Spaghetti Bowl," you'll be glad to know the work is finished.

The roadway hadn't been repaved in 15 years, and it needed it. This time they used a mix of crumb rubber (crumbed up tires) and asphalt. They say it will be a smoother ride, and last several years longer this time. This type of paving is already used in Arizona, and will probably become the major type used in Clark County.

Another oddity about I-15. The left two lanes from Russell to Sahara (the coned off ones) are *not* carpool lanes. They are "express lanes." You must enter at the beginning and exit at the end. There is no in and out in the middle. Also, big rigs are allowed in these lanes. In fact, through Las Vegas, big trucks are allowed in all lanes, rather than just the right two as in many jurisdictions. Why is that? Because many/most of the trucks on I-15 are continuing on I-15 through Las Vegas and up to Utah or further. Keeping them away from the rightmost lane makes it easier for cars to get on the freeway and blend in. It also provides for a more even road wear.

Fern

 

[LynnW]

Great news Fern! Just in time for our drive south the end of the month.

Lynn

 

[mjm1]

Thanks for the update Fern. We won't be there again until next July, but look forward to a smoother ride and less congestion caused by road work.

 

[Dori]

Fern, we came back from a quick side trip to Sedona, and were on the I-15 for a bit. Does the new road material you mentioned have a lined pattern on the road?

Dori