The I-12 Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge is an important link between the northern and southern sides of the city. It connects I-10 and I-12, the major interstate highways leading in and out of the area. Unfortunately, there are times when traffic on this bridge can become intense, making it difficult to drive from one side of the city to the other. To make matters worse, there are often backups on the bridge due to construction and congestion. If you’re trying to get into or out of Baton Rouge, it’s important to know how to avoid this bridge.
Understand Traffic Patterns
Understanding the trends of the traffic patterns can help you plan the best route when driving through Baton Rouge. The I-12 Mississippi River Bridge is often very busy during rush hour, so you should avoid it if possible. Instead, opt to take alternate routes that are less congested, such as I-10 West or US-190 North. It is also important to be aware of any potential construction or closure of roads that may impact traffic.
Leave Extra Travel Time
The I-12 Mississippi River Bridge can be a slow-moving project. This is especially true if you’re trying to cross the bridge during peak times, such as rush hour. To give yourself enough time to get to where you need to go, it is important to leave extra time for travel. This will allow you to take an alternate route if necessary, or just take your time getting across the bridge.
Be Patient On The Road
Baton Rouge is a busy city, and most roads are quite active. This is especially true on the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge. There is often intense traffic, and pedestrians may be crossing the bridge. To make the most of your journey, take your time and practice patience while on the road. Remain aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for any potential dangers.
Consider Carpooling
Carpooling can be a great way to reduce the amount of traffic on the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge. Get in touch with friends or family who are living in the area, and see if anyone is willing to carpool with you when driving through the city. Even if your route isn’t directly across the bridge, carpooling can still help with traffic congestion in the area and provide you with some company during your travels.
Be Prepared For Weather Changes
The I-12 Mississippi River Bridge is located in a region that is prone to unpredictable weather changes. This means that snow, ice, and heavy rain can hit without warning. To ensure that you stay safe on the road, make sure to check the forecast and prepare accordingly. Consider packing a bag with winter clothes, extra windshield wiper fluid, and a first aid kit to be on the safe side.
Stay Updated On Road Conditions
The I-12 Mississippi River Bridge is home to many construction projects, which can cause delays and traffic jams. To stay informed on any specific road closures or delays, it’s best to check the Department of Transportation’s online resources. This way, you can plan accordingly and work around any problems that may be causing traffic.
Park and Take A Taxi Or Bus
If you’re trying to avoid the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge, it may be a better idea to park your car and take a taxi or public transportation. If you’re staying in the area, you can even arrange for a shuttle service to get you where you need to go. All in all, these methods of transportation can help you reach your destination without having to deal with the stress of driving during busy times.
Using An App
Using a navigation app can be a great way to see alternate routes around the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge. A nav app with the option to avoid toll roads and highways can be especially useful if you’re trying to come up with an alternate plan for getting around the city. Depending on the app, you’ll also be able to get up-to-date traffic info and find out about highway closures and road construction.
Find Alternative Routes
In some cases, it may be better to take an alternative route to the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge. US-61 is a major highway that runs parallel to I-12 and is often much less congested. You can also take US-190 North, which will eventually connect you to I-12 without having to traverse the bridge. If you’re headed south, US-190 South will provide a longer but more relaxed route.
Book a Hotel Near The Bridge
If you’re looking to avoid the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge but still want to be close to the action, you can consider booking a hotel near the bridge. This way, you’ll have quick access to restaurants, shopping centers, and other attractions without having to combat traffic. You can also use public transportation or call a taxi service to get around the city.
Take A Boat Ride Across
If you want to get a unique view of the city, you can take a boat ride across the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge. Public ferry services are available and will allow you to get a different perspective of the city. This can also be a great way to relax and enjoy the sights along the river. But be sure to check the ferry’s schedule before you go, as some have limited operating hours.
Ride A Bicycle or Motorcycle
If you have a bicycle or a motorcycle, riding across the I-12 Mississippi River Bridge can be a great way to get around the city. The sidewalks provide ample space for cyclists and motorcyclists to ride safely and quickly across the bridge. As an added bonus, this method of transportation can be much less stressful than driving during peak traffic hours.
