Waco, Texas, August 25, 2025
News Summary
As Baylor University’s football season opener against Auburn approaches, fans should prepare for potential traffic delays due to ongoing construction near the campus. Lane closures on I-35 and additional projects are expected to affect game day traffic. Senior Associate Athletics Director Drew Pittman advises fans to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes to ensure a smooth arrival at McLane Stadium. Waco’s President Linda Livingstone emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, while real-time traffic updates can be found on the City of Waco’s official website.
Baylor Football Season Opener on Aug. 29 Faces Potential Traffic Delays Due to Ongoing Construction
Waco, Texas – Baylor University’s football season will commence on August 29 with a highly anticipated game against Auburn. However, fans attending the game may confront unexpected traffic issues stemming from extensive construction work near the campus.
Since the summer, lane closures and construction activities on I-35, particularly south of Baylor, have contributed to increased traffic congestion. According to Senior Associate Athletics Director Drew Pittman, the number of vehicles on the roads is expected to rise significantly on game day as fans flock to McLane Stadium.
Pittman has recommended that fans allow for extra travel time and suggested using alternate routes to reach the stadium. Recent construction includes the closure of the southbound exit opposite Chick-fil-A, which may pose additional challenges for drivers heading to the game.
Waco’s President, Linda Livingstone, has acknowledged the construction’s potential impact on the upcoming game and underlined the need for drivers to plan ahead. She has outlined alternate routes, including La Salle Avenue and Loop 340, which can provide better access to I-35 and other locations within Waco during the game.
Moreover, a sewer relocation project on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, located to the west of the interstate, could further complicate travel for fans. Aware of these challenges, Baylor has partnered with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to implement updated traffic control plans aimed at enhancing the efficiency of entering and exiting the stadium on game days.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early and take part in pre-game tailgating activities to enrich their game day experience. Pittman underscored the significance of camaraderie and networking among fans during football days at Baylor.
Real-time updates regarding road closures and traffic can be found on the City of Waco’s official website. It is advised that all attendees remain informed to navigate the construction areas successfully.
Traffic Advisory Summary
- Game Date: August 29
- Opposing Team: Auburn
- Major Road Affected: I-35
- Closed Exit: Southbound exit across from Chick-fil-A
- Alternate Routes: La Salle Avenue, Loop 340
- Additional Construction: Sewer relocation on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
- Traffic Updates: City of Waco’s website
Background on Construction Impact
The ongoing construction projects near Baylor University are part of a larger traffic improvement initiative intended to ease urban congestion in Waco. While these developments are ultimately aimed at benefiting the community, they present immediate challenges for fans attending events, particularly during peak times such as football games.
For years, I-35 has been a crucial artery for Waco residents and visitors, and significant work is being done to upgrade and maintain safety. As the season opener approaches, it is crucial for attendees to be aware of the existing conditions to ensure a smooth journey to and from McLane Stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the date of Baylor’s football season opener?
- The game will take place on August 29 against Auburn.
- What traffic issues should fans expect?
- Fans may encounter delays due to I-35 construction, specifically a closed exit near Chick-fil-A, and other lane closures.
- Are there recommended alternate routes for fans attending the game?
- Yes, fans are advised to use La Salle Avenue or Loop 340 to access I-35.
- What additional construction project might affect game day traffic?
- A sewer relocation project on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard may also impact traffic.
- Where can fans find more traffic updates?
- Updated road closures and traffic information can be accessed on the City of Waco’s website.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Baylor Lariat: Baylor Football Fans Face Roadblock I-35 Construction
- KCEN: Construction to Cause Major Gameday Traffic in Waco
- KXXV: Traffic Alert Races Set for Cameron Park and Downtown Waco Saturday
- Wikipedia: Waco, Texas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waco
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