The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced that a portion of Interstate 71 will be closed overnight on Friday to enable crews to recover a vehicle from a recent crash. The closure affects the southbound lanes from the I-71/I-264 (Watterson Expressway) interchange to mile point 1.5, near Zorn Avenue.

Closure Details

Traffic on the southbound side of I-71 will be halted from 9 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Saturday. During the same window, the eastbound ramp from I-264 to I-71 south will also be closed. Motorists are urged to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time.

Reason for the Shutdown

The cabinet confirmed that the vehicle stuck on the roadway was the result of a recent collision. Removing the wreckage safely requires a clear work zone, which is why the overnight closure was deemed necessary.

Impact on Drivers

Drivers who normally use the southbound I-71 corridor should consider using I-264 eastbound to bypass the affected segment or take local streets such as Zorn Avenue and nearby side roads. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet advises checking real‑time traffic updates via local news outlets or the state’s traffic information website.

Safety Measures

Work crews will be on site throughout the night, with proper lighting and signage to guide motorists. Law enforcement will monitor the area to ensure compliance with the closure and to assist drivers who need directions.

Looking Ahead

Once the vehicle is removed and the roadway inspected, the southbound lanes are expected to reopen at the scheduled 6 a.m. time on Saturday. The cabinet will issue any further updates if additional work is required.

Residents of Louisville and surrounding Jefferson County are encouraged to stay informed and exercise patience as the transportation department works to restore normal traffic flow promptly.

Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.