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Weather Forecasts, Road Conditions, and Weather Radar for I-80

Current & 7-day weather forecast, road conditions, and weather radar for all of US interstate I-80. All times shown in your local timezone

Weather Radar for I-80

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Road Trip and Weather Conditions for Interstate I-80

A map of Interstate 80 will show travelers its expansive 2,901-mile, 11-state reach from San Fransisco, CA to Teaneck, NJ (near New York City). That’s a lot of ground to cover! I-80 closely approximates the historic Lincoln Highway (the first automobile road across the US), as well as historic migration routes like the Oregon Trail.

As the US’s second-longest highway, I-80 passes through a number of states: California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Whew! Prepare for a long drive and use caution if you are driving from coast to coast.

I-80E begins in San Francisco, California, and runs eastbound across the US.

I-80W begins in Teaneck, New Jersey, and runs westbound across the US.

Weather Conditions on I-80

Road conditions can be particularly bad across the western states. Stay up to date with travel information along the route to avoid being caught in a bad situation. Because the highway spans from coast to coast, you are likely to run into all kinds of situations. It's not just during the winter that you will hope for fair conditions. Summer can also be dangerous with high temperature heat waves and look out for a high heat index in the more humid stretches of the eastern States. Rain can be a concern, particularly when it makes the roads icy.

Stay updated by checking our map for detailed current weather conditions and warnings.

Weather Conditions in California on I-80

In the winter months, temperatures can range from below freezing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the mid-50s in the Central Valley. Snow is common in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Strong winds can make for hazardous driving conditions. In the spring and summer, temperatures can reach the high 80s in the Central Valley and the low 80s in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Thunderstorms are common in the mountains during this time of year. They can cause flooding and mudslides. It is important to be aware of changing weather conditions while traveling on I-80 in California. It is also important to be prepared for sudden changes in weather and to be aware of any road closures due to weather-related issues.

Donner Pass Weather

At the top of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, I-80 traverses Donner Pass at an elevation of 7,057 feet. Road conditions for I-80 through Donner Pass can be especially bad in the winter time, often forcing road closures at the Nevada state line. Weather conditions are often treacherous! You can often expect heavy snow as well as dense traffic crossing the mountains between Sacramento, California, and Reno, Nevada. Be aware of the weather for Donner Pass to avoid getting stuck or running into dangerous road conditions and be sure to check the available traffic cameras!

Weather Conditions in Nevada on I-80

I-80 is the main east-west artery that runs through Nevada. The weather varies along route. The western part of the state has dry desert heat. The eastern side can experience cold mountain temperatures.

In the western part of Nevada, temperatures can range from the high 80s and low 90s in the summer months to the low 30s in the winter months. The area is generally very dry, with low humidity and very little precipitation. During the summer months, thunderstorms can occur. They are usually isolated and short-lived.

In the eastern part of Nevada, temperatures can range from the high 70s in the summer months to the low 20s in the winter months. The area is typically much colder and wetter, and snowfall is common during the winter months. Thunderstorms can occur during the spring and summer months, but they are usually not as frequent as in the western part of the state.

Weather Conditions in Utah on I-80

In general, the climate in Utah on I-80 is relatively dry and sunny, with low humidity and mild temperatures. In the summer months, temperatures can reach into the 90s in the valleys. The mountains can experience cooler temperatures, with highs typically in the 80s. Winters are cold, with temperatures in the valleys hovering in the 20s and 30s. The mountains typically experience temperatures in the teens and single digits.

Utah also experiences significant amounts of snow in the mountains. This is especially true in the higher elevations. I-80, which runs through northern Utah, can experience snow and ice during the winter months. Snowfall can range from light dustings to heavy accumulations. In addition, the winds that blow across the Great Salt Lake can cause drifting snow and icy conditions.

Is Interstate I-80 Open in Wyoming?

I-80 weather in Wyoming is known for its bad conditions. The highway is especially prone to winter weather, with blizzards and ice storms common in the colder months. In the summer, the heat and dust can be a hazard, as can severe thunderstorms. Be prepared for tough driving conditions when traveling through Wyoming on I-80. High wind speed frequently causes trucks and other large vehicles to roll over. Heavy snow storms often cause road closures at the state lines of Wyoming. Before you head north from Salt Lake City or try heading west into Pine Bluffs, be sure to double-check the I-80 road conditions in Wyoming.

Also check out our focus map for I-80 in Wyoming .

Weather Conditions in Nebraska on I-80

Nebraska is also prone to high winds and heavy snow. When driving in winter weather conditions, be aware of snow plows and other DOT vehicles. Never pass a snow plow on the right! Give them some space, as they may also be treating the road with salt or salt brine. Be sure to double-check if interstate 80 is open between Lincoln and Omaha.

Nebraska has a wide range of weather conditions along Interstate I-80. The state experiences the full range of four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 90 degrees, while winter temperatures can dip as low as 0 degrees.

The summer months in Nebraska are usually hot and humid. Temperatures on some days reach up to 100. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer, bringing with them lightning and heavy rains.

In the winter, Nebraska can experience severe cold temperatures that last for extended periods of time. Temperatures in the winter usually remain below freezing, and snowfall is common in the northern and western parts of the state. Blizzards can also occur, bringing strong winds and low visibility to the area.

Weather Conditions in Iowa on I-80

Driving along Interstate 80 in Iowa, you’ll experience a wide variety of weather conditions throughout the year. In the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing with snow and ice common occurrences. Drivers should be prepared for winter driving conditions. Icy roads, limited visibility, and strong winds can occur. In the spring, temperatures can range from warm and sunny to cold and wet. Thunderstorms are occasional. Summer temperatures in Iowa can be hot and humid, with occasional severe thunderstorms. Fall is usually mild and sunny, but occasional cold weather and rain is possible.

Weather Conditions in Illinois on I-80

Illinois is located in the Midwestern United States. It has a wide variety of weather conditions throughout the year. During the summer months, temperatures can reach the mid-90s and can cause heat advisories. During the winter months, temperatures can dip to below zero, and snowfall is common.

I-80, which runs through Illinois, can also experience extreme weather conditions. During the summer months, hot, humid temperatures and thunderstorms can occur. The thunderstorms can cause flooding, hail, and even tornadoes. In the winter months, snow and ice storms can occur. This can make driving conditions hazardous. High winds are also common during the winter, making visibility difficult.

Weather Conditions in Indiana on I-80

Indiana can have a variety of weather conditions that vary depending on the season. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to near freezing and below zero. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain can all be expected during the winter months. On Interstate I-80, these conditions can be especially hazardous, so it is important to be prepared for winter driving.

In the spring, temperatures start to warm up, and conditions become more varied. Rain, thunderstorms, and even some snow can still be expected. The warmer temperatures can make driving easier. It is still important to be aware of changing weather conditions when traveling on I-80.

Summer is typically hot and humid in Indiana, with temperatures reaching into the 90s. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, especially in the evening. Heavy rain and strong winds can be expected in these storms, and flash flooding is not uncommon. Drivers should be aware of changing weather conditions and be prepared for sudden storms.

Fall brings cooler temperatures, and rainfall increases. Temperatures can reach into the 80s during the day and dip into the 40s or lower at night. Fog can also be an issue in the fall months. Drivers should be aware of changing conditions and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility.

Weather Conditions in Ohio on I-80

Ohio is a state that experiences a wide variety of weather conditions, and Interstate 80 is no exception. During the summer months, I-80 can be subject to extreme heat and humidity. Temperatures reach into the 90s and sometimes exceeds 100 degrees. This can make for a long and uncomfortable drive, especially during the hottest hours of the day.

In the winter months, I-80 in Ohio can be subject to frigid temperatures and icy conditions. Snow and ice can form on the roads, making them dangerous to drive on. The Ohio DOT recommends that drivers check weather conditions before traveling. Also, be prepared for hazardous driving conditions.

Springtime can bring sudden severe thunderstorms and heavy rains. Strong winds can cause hazardous driving conditions, and tornadoes are not unheard of in the area.

In the fall, I-80 in Ohio can be a beautiful place to drive.

Weather Conditions in Pennsylvania on I-80

The weather in Pennsylvania on I-80 can vary drastically depending on the season and the location. In the winter, I-80 can be subject to heavy snowfall as well as icy conditions. The average high temperature in the winter is around 36 degrees. Temperatures occasionally drop below freezing. Pennsylvania also experiences high winds in the winter. These can cause poor visibility and dangerous driving conditions.

In the spring and summer, temperatures tend to be warmer and more pleasant. Average high temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-80s. Thunderstorms and heavy rain are common in the spring and summer months, and can cause dangerous driving conditions.

In the fall, temperatures cool off again, ranging between the mid-50s and mid-70s. I-80 is also subject to heavy fog and mist during the fall months, which can reduce visibility.

Weather Conditions in New Jersey on I-80

New Jersey is a small state located along the east coast of the United States. It experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. Temperatures range from just below freezing in the winter to over 90 degrees in the summer.

In the winter months, temperatures in New Jersey can be quite cold, with average lows in the 20s and average highs in the 40s. Snowfall is common, and it can range from light snow showers to heavy blizzards. Ice storms are also not unheard of. New Jersey is also prone to nor'easter storms, which can bring heavy rain, snow, and wind.

In the spring and fall, temperatures range from the 40s to the 60s with occasional showers. Windy days are also common.

In the summer, temperatures can reach the 90s and even into the triple digits. Humidity is also high, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are also common in the summer months.

The weather conditions along I-80 in New Jersey can vary depending on the time of year. During the winter months, drivers can expect cold temperatures, snow, and icy roads. During the summer months, drivers can expect hot temperatures, thunderstorms, and humid conditions.

The Scenic Beauty of Interstate I-80

The I-80 is a beautiful highway that runs through 11 states. It's especially scenic in Wyoming, where it runs near the Rocky Mountains. The mountains are a breathtaking sight and offer a great view from the highway.

In western Utah, I-80 runs through the Bonneville Salt Flats , one of the largest and flattest areas of the United States. Due to its expanse, the Bonneville Salt Flats are the home for many races and world speed record events for a variety of vehicles, including cars with jet engines!

At its western terminus, I-80 crosses the historic San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge, overlooking San Francisco Bay and the prison of Alcatraz. Heading east, you'll pass over the Sierra Nevada Mountains by way of Donner Pass, the location of the ill-fated Donner Party. Don't worry, the sunset in this region is beautiful!

In the eastern US, I-80 passes through the heartland of American agriculture. The Midwest is known for its agriculture, and I-80 passes through the heartland of American farming. The fertile soil and ample rainfall make the Midwest an ideal place for crops. Farmers in the region grow corn, wheat, soybeans, and other crops.

Agriculture is an important part of the economy in the Midwest, which also serves as a major breadbasket for the whole world. This means I-80 can see a lot of heavy traffic in these areas, as well as sections of toll roads! Be sure to check out Iowa 80 , the world's largest truck stop, as you pass through Walcott, Iowa.

Major Junctions of I-80

In California:

• I-80 East begins at US-101 in San Francisco, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-880 in Oakland, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-580 in Emeryville, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-780 in Vallejo, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-680 in Fairfield, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-505 in Vacaville, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-305 in West Sacramento, California.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-5 in Sacramento, California.
• I-80 crosses Donner Pass heading into Nevada.
• I-80 has a major junction at US-395/I-580 in Reno, Nevada.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-15 and I-215 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-84 in Echo, Utah.

In Wyoming:

• I-80 has major junctions at I-25 and I-180 near Cheyenne, Wyoming.

In Nebraska:

• I-80 has a major junction at I-76 in Big Springs, Nebraska.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-180 in Lincoln, Nebraska.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-480 and I-680 in Omaha, Nebraska.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-29 in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-880 in Minden, Iowa.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-35 and I-235 in Des Moines, Iowa and again in Ankeny, Iowa.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-380 at the city line of Tiffin-Coralville, Iowa.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-74 and I-280 in Davenport, Iowa.

In Illinois:

• I-80 has a major junction at I-88 in East Moline, Illinois.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-74 and I-280 in Colona, Illinois.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-180 in Princeton, Illinois.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-39 in LaSalle, Illinois.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-55 in Channahon, Illinois.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-355 in New Lenox, Illinois.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-57 in Country Club Hills, Illinois.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-294 in Hazel Crest, Illinois.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-94 and I-294 in Lansing, Illinois.

In Indiana:

• I-80 has a major junction at I-65 in Gary, Indiana.
• I-80 has major junctions at I-90 and I-94 in Lake Station, Indiana.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-69 in Fremont, Indiana.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-75 in Perrysburg, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-280 in Stony Ridge, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-480 in North Ridgeville, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-71 in Strongsville, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-77 in Brecksville, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-480 in Streetsboro, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-76 in North Jackson, Ohio.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-680 in Mineral Ridge, Ohio.

In Pennsylvania:

• I-80 has a major junction at I-376 in Hermitage, Pennsylvania.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-79 in Grove City, Pennsylvania.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-99 in Zion, Pennsylvania.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-180 in New Columbia, Pennsylvania.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-81 in Drums, Pennsylvania.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-476 in East Side, Pennsylvania.
• I-80 has a major junction at I-380 in Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania.

In New Jersey:

• I-80 has major junctions at I-280 and I-287 in Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey.
• I-80 West begins at I-95 in Teaneck, New Jersey.

This map shows the current & 7-day weather forecast, road conditions, and weather radar for all of US interstate I-80.

The Interstate 80 Road Trip Guide

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on June 16, 2021

Other cross-country routes are more famous, but Interstate 80 is one of our most vital east-west arteries.

As a matter of fact, it stretches from San Francisco almost to New York City as a smooth, continuous connection through 11 different states.

So buckle up and settle in for a tour of one of the longest thruways in the United States.

Let’s explore!

The History of Interstate 80

Interstate 80 was part of the original plans for the Interstate Highway System when it was established in the 1950s. Construction of I-80 started in 1956, in segments, and it took 30 years to complete. After opening for traffic in 1986, it’s now in its 35th year of service.

This highway is a more modern replacement for the historic Lincoln Highway, the nation’s first transcontinental road. Interstate 80 follows much of the Lincoln Highway’s original path in addition to historic trails that predated highways.

How Long is I-80

With an official distance of 2,899.59 miles, Interstate 80 is the second-longest interstate highway, trailing only Interstate 90. It’s also the sixth-longest road in the United States.

Where Does Interstate 80 Begin and End? 

It starts in downtown San Francisco, specifically at the U.S. Highway 101 interchange. Then, it crosses the country east to Teaneck, New Jersey, where it transitions into the New Jersey Turnpike.

Interstate 80 in California

San Francisco has so many cool attractions that you may not want to leave. When you do, you’ll cross the bay and pass through Oakland. The capital city of Sacramento is your next major stop.

Interstate 80 in Nevada

Past the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains, the lively small city of Reno, Nevada, lies low in a valley. Then, as Interstate 80 continues toward Utah, it loosely follows two rivers, the Humboldt and the Truckee.

Interstate 80 in Utah

Continuing eastward, you can’t miss the magical beauty of Salt Lake City and its surrounding landscapes. Besides barren salt flats, Utah has regions of forests and mountains and iconic natural sandstone features.

Interstate 80 in Wyoming

Interstate 80 reaches its highest point at Sherman Summit, which is near the ghost town of Buford in southern Wyoming. As you traverse the Rocky Mountains you’ll actually cross the Continental Divide not once but twice.

Interstate 80 in Nebraska

You’re headed toward America’s heartland now, and Colorado is just to the south. The long stretch of open road ahead is straight as an arrow for 72 miles!

Interstate 80 in Iowa

One of the reasons many people associate Iowa with endless corn crops is because I-80 cuts through farmland. However, this corridor is also the most heavily populated area of the state. Keep an eye out for the world’s largest truck stop, just outside Quad Cities.

Interstate 80 in Illinois

You’ll then cross the Mississippi River into Illinois and continue through the northern part of the state through Joliet. The city of Chicago remains just out of reach to the north as you make your way toward Indiana.

Interstate 80 in Indiana

Crossing the next state line puts you in the city of Gary, Indiana, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Interstate 80 runs concurrently with I-94 through much of the state. Toward the east, it shares the same route as Interstate 90 through South Bend and into Ohio. It’s also a toll road through Indiana – and through Ohio, too.

Interstate 80 in Ohio

Known here as the Ohio Turnpike, I-80 continues as a toll highway south of Toledo on its course toward Cleveland. Then, in Rossford, it intersects with Interstate 75 at a major intersection that’s called the Crossroads of America.

Interstate 80 in Pennsylvania

It’s a freeway again as it moves into Pennsylvania, except for a toll bridge over the Delaware River. Some gorgeous undeveloped areas lie just outside the massive Pittsburgh metropolitan area. 

Interstate 80 in New Jersey

The final part of Interstate 80 stops just short of New York City – about four miles away. In fact, the official terminus is near the Degraw Avenue overpass in the suburb of Teaneck. The roadway then continues (across the George Washington Bridge) as Interstate 95 or the New Jersey Turnpike.

Best Hikes off I-80

With so much driving, it’s a good idea to take a break and stretch the legs. So here are some details on two great places for a hike.

Emerald Pools

One nice diversion is in Tahoe National Forest near Nevada City, California. Emerald Pools is a .7-mile out-and-back route along the South Yuba River and Jordan Creek. With an elevation gain of just 45 feet, it’s certainly suitable for all skill levels. Dogs can join, too, as long as they’re kept on a leash. The adjacent Pioneer Trail requires a bit more climbing.

Openwood, River, Lenape and Overlook Trails Loop

This great getaway spot is on South Mountain Reservation. It’s a 2,110-acre nature reserve on the Rahway River near Milburn, New Jersey. This 4.3-mile loop is popular with hikers, runners, and dog-walkers, so it can get pretty crowded. In addition, some areas are not as clearly marked. Hemlock Falls is off the trail but worth seeking out if it’s not too muddy.

Best Camping off Interstate 80

Indian springs campground.

Indian Springs Campground offers dry camping in Tahoe National Forest near Interstate 80 and the South Yuba River. It is about three miles west of Big Bend and about 23 miles from Truckee. Donner Lake is just 19 miles away. It sits at an elevation of 5,600 feet among mature cedars and pines. There are drinking water and vault toilets as well as picnic tables and tent pads. Recreation opportunities include trout fishing, swimming, and access to OHV trails.

Woodland Campground

The Pennsylvania Wilds region is one of the largest blocks of woods between Chicago and New York. Woodland is a great place to experience this unique part of the country. The campground has full-hookup, pull-through sites, tent spaces, and cabins for rent. Kayaking and volleyball are among the many recreation choices, and there’s an off-leash area for dogs. There are also shopping and dining opportunities nearby as well as woodland trails.  

Is an Interstate 80 Road Trip Worth It?

We wouldn’t necessarily advocate taking Interstate 80 from end to end as an experience unto itself. However, I-80 is an efficient way to get to some of the most interesting places in America. After all, to a large degree, it follows the same general path as some other historically important routes. These include the Lincoln Highway we mentioned above, the Oregon Trail, the California Emigrant Trail, and the first transcontinental railroad.

So Interstate 80 is also a convenient stepping stone to secondary roads from one end of the country to the other. Besides getting you from coast to coast, it can lead you to anywhere you want to be.

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The top things to do on an I-80 road trip

From San Francisco to Teaneck, New Jersey, this cross-country route will take you past historical sites, museums, and the World's Largest Time Capsule

• Featured Trip Guides
• Classic American road trips

Created by Roadtrippers - December 19th 2020

Interstate 80 connects two major US cities—San Francisco and Teaneck, New Jersey, right outside New York City—making it a popular and well-traveled route. Though its endpoints are two of the country's coolest destinations, you should not zoom through the middle.

Along the way, you'll pass through Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Omaha, Des Moines, and more. You'll travel across states like Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, which are all loaded with offbeat and interesting attractions. Here are some of the coolest things to see and do along I-80.

San Francisco, California, United States

The interstate starts in San Francisco. The City by the Bay is packed with beauty and culture. Visit hippie capital Haight-Ashbury, the city's legendary Chinatown, or traditional favorites, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

Sacramento, California, United States

Not too far away from San Francisco, you'll reach California's capital city, Sacramento. As the capital, it has many cultural attractions, including the Crocker Art Museum, the California Automobile Museum, the Sacramento Zoo, and more. You'll also find interesting historic sites, such as Old Sacramento, Sutter's Fort and the Capitol Building.

10791 E Empire St, Grass Valley, CA, US

Empire Mine State Historic Park

Once you leave Sacramento, I-80 takes you toward the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Here, you'll find the Empire Mine State Historic Park, home to one of the largest and richest mines in California. With over 300 miles of passageway, this mine produced 5.8 million ounces of gold in its 100 years of operation. The park offers tours of historic buildings, hiking trails, and the chance to go down into the shaft of the mine. The coolest feature is the Secret Room, which contains a scale model of the whole mine's underground system.

Virginia St, Reno, NV, US

The Reno Arch

You'll pass near Reno on I-80, so pull off and, at least, take a picture at the iconic Reno Arch, bearing the city's slogan: "The Biggest Little City In The World." If you want to stay longer, there are plenty of attractions, including the National Automobile Museum, the Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center, and Wingfield Park. You can also try to strike it rich in the countless casinos.

The Whitney Peak Hotel and the Peppermill Resort Spa and Casino are two stellar options for hotels in Reno, although there are nice casino/resorts all throughout the city.

800 Highway Dr, Imlay, NV, US

Thunder Mountain Monument

On a shoulder of I-80, you'll pass by Thunder Mountain Monument, an outsider art installation. Built by a WWII veteran and self-identified Creek Indian, the structure was meant to serve as a spiritual haven for the hippies of the era. Partially destroyed in 1983, only three of the seven buildings remain, with walls and sculptures made from concrete and found objects. You can take a self-guided tour.

501 Railroad St, Elko, NV, US

Western Folklife Center

For more interesting history along the highway, stop at the Western Folklife Center, which works to preserve the aspects that make the American West so unique. It contains a gallery, museum, and gift shop. If you're lucky, you'll be passing by here during the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, which includes a week of performances, workshops, and celebrations.

1045 Wendover Boulevard, West Wendover, NV, US

Rainbow Hotel Casino

Click to discover a great deal!

Since you're in Nevada, indulge yourself at the Rainbow Hotel Casino, just off I-80. Luxurious rooms, free WiFi, several onsite restaurants, two pools, a spa, and, of course, a casino, make this a nice place to take a break from driving.

Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

The next city you'll reach if you stay on the interstate is Salt Lake City, Utah. The mountains, forests and namesake lake make for a beautiful natural setting. Science-lovers will appreciate the Clark Planetarium and The Leonardo, a museum that explores the intersection of art, technology, creativity, and science. Cultural offerings include the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art and the Utah Museum of Natural History. As the headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City has many sites important to the Mormon faith, including the Gilgal Sculpture Garden, Temple Square, and the Museum of Church History and Art.

If you're looking for a quaint hotel in Salt Lake City, you're in luck, because there are more than a few options here. The Peery Hotel and the Ellerbeck Bed and Breakfast are two excellent choices.

601 Bear River Dr., Evanston, WY, US

Bear River State Park

Next, I-80 takes you into Wyoming. Just because the state is known for its wide open spaces doesn't mean there aren't plenty of things to see in Wyoming. Get a deep appreciation for the state's landscape at Bear River State Park. With views of the surroundings, a few miles of trails, and a chance to see some Wyoming wildlife (including elk and bison), it's a great place to experience the Wild West.

Po Box 112 37000 Business Loop I 80, Fort Bridger, WY, US

Fort Bridger Historical Association

One cool attraction in Wyoming is Fort Bridger. Established in 1843 as a supply stop on the Oregon Trail, Fort Bridger has seen many roadtrippers passing through its gates. Today, the Fort Bridger Historical Association has recreations of the trading post and fort buildings, an archaeological site preserving the remains of the original structures, and a museum.

3 N Main St,, Superior, WY, US

Natural Corrals Archeological Site (Ice Caves)

Natural Corrals Archaeological Site is a home to a rugged landscape formed from ancient lava flows. It is dotted with caves, some of which have ice all year round. It's also historically important, as there's evidence that Native Americans used this area for buffalo kills.

I-80, Exit 228, Rawlins, WY, US

Fort Fred Steele Historic Site

Stop by Fort Fred Steele to stretch your legs by walking among the remains of an old military post, built to protect the railroad. Several buildings and interpretive signs and exhibits make this a quick educational stop. You'll also enjoy the beautiful setting in the Wyoming landscape.

975 Snowy Range Rd, Laramie, WY, US

Wyoming Territorial Prison Museum

Another interesting historic stop along I-80 is the Wyoming Territorial Prison Museum. Built in 1872, it saw many famous outlaws—including Butch Cassidy—pass through its doors. Walk into the cells, see pictures of old convicts, and learn what life was like for outlaws who weren't able to escape arrest.

Champagne Dr, Warren AFB, WY, US

Icbm Missile Museum

Located on Wyoming's F.E. Warren Air Force Base, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile and Heritage Museum is a fascinating look into the science and history of ICBMs and the 90th Missile Wing, which operates Minuteman-III missiles across the west. It's all housed in a turn-of-the-century building at the oldest continuously active military installation within the Air Force.

U.S. 26, Lewellen, NE, US

Ash Hollow State Historical Site

I-80 makes its way into Nebraska next, where you'll find even more natural beauty and interesting history. From Apache Indians to the Oregon Trail, Ash Hollow State Historical site is loaded with fascinating stories from the past. It's not hard to see why Native Americans chose to settle here, as it has caves for shelter and abundant wildlife. The park's Windlass Hill was notoriously difficult for emigrants on the Oregon/California Trail.

1249 North Homestead Rd, NE, North Platte, NE, US

Union Pacific Railroad's Bailey Yard

Union Pacific Railroad's Bailey Yard manages 10,000 rail road cars every single day on its 2,850 acre spread. The Golden Spike Tower's observation decks provide the best views of the world's largest train yard. Tour the visitor center to learn about the crucial role railroads played in American history.

606 Heartland Rd, Lexington, NE, US

Heartland Military Museum

The Heartland Military Museum has a huge collection of military vehicles that is incredibly impressive, with helicopters, jeeps, tanks, and more—some of which you can climb inside.. You'll also find displays of weapons, uniforms, and equipment.

3600 E Hwy 30, Kearney, NE, US

Classic Car Collection

Kearney's Classic Car Collection is an ever-growing display of vintage cars from across history. Even if you don't know much about automobiles, you can appreciate the details and aesthetic of these retro beauties.

358 Bluff Rd, Seward, NE, US

World's Largest Time Capsule

Seward is home to the World's Largest Time Capsule. It's a 20-foot by 8-foot by 6-foot concrete vault filled with 5,000 objects from the town's history, all donated by its citizens. Rumor has it that there's even a car inside. It was dedicated in 1975 and is set to be open in 2025, but in the meantime, you can check out the memorial and ponder what might be within.

Omaha, Nebraska, United States

Omaha is the next big city you'll pass through while on I-80. Explore the Heartland Park of America or the Lewis and Clark Landing, check out the Durham Museum, housed in a 1931 train station, or visit the renowned Henry Doorly Zoo. And, while you're in cattle country, be sure to grab a steak. The Drover Restaurant and Lounge has been an Omaha institution for over 30 years.

There are plenty of great hotels in Omaha. The Magnolia and Hotel Deco are luxurious options.

There's no bad time of year to road trip along I-80. Snow might make traveling a little tougher in the winter, closing some attractions and slowing down your drive, but there are enough big cities along the way and other travelers on the highway, ensuring something will always be open.

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Interstate 80

Interstate 80 is a major transcontinental corridor connecting California and New York City. From the city of San Francisco to four miles west of the Hudson River at Teaneck, New Jersey, I-80 traverses various terrain and 11 states. Its highest point is located at Sherman Hill Summit in Wyoming between Laramie and Cheyenne at an elevation of 8640 feet. The highest point of Interstate 80 east of the Mississippi, 2,250 feet above sea level, is near Milepost 111 in Pennsylvania.

Although Interstate 80 begins at U.S. 101 in San Francisco, original plans called for the route to continue west through Golden Gate Park to the Pacific Ocean near the famous Ocean Beach area. This plan was halted due to community opposition.

In the east, I-80 ends at Interstate 95 along the Teaneck Township and Ridgefield Park line in North Jersey. There was some debate as to whether or not I-80 ends at the Hudson River or at Interstate 95. Coincidentally, the exit numbering for I-95 in the Garden State approximates what the I-80 numbering would be if it continued east to the George Washington Bridge. However, that numbering is actually based upon the distance of I-95 had the Somerset Freeway between Trenton and New Brunswick been completed as planned.

Interstate 80 Split Routes

No other Interstate highway had as many split routes as I-80. No fewer than five suffixed routes split from I-80 at varying intervals prior to 1980; none of these split routes remain today. These routes included:

• I-80N from Portland, Oregon, to Echo Junction, Utah (now Western Interstate 84 )
• I-80S from Denver, Colorado, to Big Springs, Nebraska (now Western Interstate 76 )
• I-80N from Interstate 29 to I-80 north of Council Bluffs, Iowa (replaced by Interstate 680 and I-880 )
• I-80S from Norwalk, Ohio, to Camden, New Jersey (the portion between Norwalk and Westfield Center was not constructed; the rest is became Eastern Interstate 76 )
• I-80N from Norwalk, Ohio, to northwest of Youngstown, Ohio (parts of which are Interstate 480 )

High Priority Corridor

Interstate 80 in New Jersey is part of High Priority Corridor 63: Liberty Corridor.

Parallel U.S. Routes

Interstate 80 largely replaced its companion U.S. routes in the West and parallels them in the East. Between San Francisco and Park City, Interstate 80 replaced U.S. 40. Sections of original U.S. 40 are still in use as local county roads in California, while many segments of U.S. 40 in Nevada were directly replaced by I-80. Today, U.S. 40 begins eastward from an interchange with I-80 in Park City. Between Park City and Echo Junction, I-80 replaced U.S. 189 (and U.S. 530 before it). East from Echo Junction to Evanston and southwestern Wyoming, I-80 overlaid the historic route of U.S. 30S. U.S. 30 accompanies the cross country route east from Granger Wyoming to the Midwestern U.S.

U.S. 30 is the Lincoln Highway through Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. It closely parallels Interstate 80 in Wyoming and Nebraska, combining with the freeway in the least populated areas (such as the cosigned portion between Granger and Walcott in Wyoming, a distance of 170 miles). Once at Grand Island, Nebraska, U.S. 30 shifts away from the freeway to the north of Lincoln and Omaha; Interstate 80 instead follows U.S. 34 between Grand Island and Lincoln and U.S. 6 from Lincoln to the Quad Cities via Omaha and Des Moines. Additionally U.S. 6 merges with I-80 several times through Iowa, and it closely parallels the freeway through Illinois before joining it again in Lansing.

U.S. 30 and I-80 meet again at Joliet, Illinois. Having avoided Des Moines and the Quad Cities, U.S. 30 heads southeast to avoid Chicago. U.S. 30 continues on this trajectory en route to Fort Wayne, Indiana and Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; it does not intersect I-80 again. Interstate 80 instead remains close to U.S. 6 and U.S. 20 as they skirt the southern edge of the Great Lakes. I-80 is tolled through Indiana and Ohio, so the parallel U.S. 6 and U.S. 20 provide free alternate routes.

Bypassing Cleveland to the south, Interstate 80 leaves both U.S. 6 and U.S. 20, as they follow I-90. Leaving the Ohio Turnpike at North Jackson, I-80 briefly parallels U.S. 62 through Sharon. Continuing east past Youngstown, I-80 follows a path that was not previously tread by a U.S. route. This solo route continues for the most part across Pennsylvania on what was designated the Keystone Shortway, with the exception of U.S. 322 from Clarion to State College and a brief merge with U.S. 220 near State College. Finally entering New Jersey, I-80 picks up U.S. 46, a route which is almost entirely located within New Jersey — it never went any farther west than PA 611 (former U.S. 611). U.S. 46 parallels the freeway east to I-95 at Ridgefield Park.

Within San Francisco, the west end of I-80 was originally proposed to be at Interstate 280, which was briefly considered as part of Interstate 480, in Golden Gate Park. The Western Freeway (I-80) would have originated at U.S. 101 / Central Freeway and traveled west toward the park, straddling Fell Street and Oak Street along the way. Once at the park, the freeway would have entered a major interchange with I-280, making an odd case where a parent route would have ended at one of its branch routes. However, that situation never came to pass. The freeway was never built as a result of substantial protests, and the western end of Interstate 80 was retracted to U.S. 101 / Central Freeway.

The westernmost alignment proposed for Interstate 80 across San Francisco in 1960. I-480 was envisioned as an urban loop extending west from the Embarcadero double deck freeway to the Presidio and south to I-80.

Since the Central Freeway viaduct was mostly torn down, I-80 concludes at the series of U.S. 101 exits near Van Ness Avenue. This end point is somewhat in dispute; some say that Interstate 80 actually ends at the Embarcadero exit. See the AARoads Guide for Interstate 80 in California for more history and information.

The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge was dedicated on January 14, 1939. 9 The bridge initially carried U.S. 40-50 across the bay; it was later redesignated as part of Interstate 80.

The first iteration of the Yolo Causeway, which carries Interstate 80 over the Yolo Bypass west of Sacramento and east of Davis, was completed in 1916. This causeway was the first highway project in the state of California to be financed with the sale of highway bonds; it has been expanded since the original facility opened.

Development of large sections of the freeway along U.S. 40, predecessor to I-80, between San Francisco and Reno occurred by 1947, excepting certain sections including much of the route in the mountains. The first Interstate in California to open using funds designated by the Federal Highway Act of 1956 was Interstate 80. Within the Sierra Nevada northeast of Sacramento, U.S. 40 was converted into I-80 between 1960 and 1964. The first 50 miles were built in 1960, and the ten mile stretch both over Donner Summit and through Truckee River Canyon to the city of Truckee was constructed in 1964. 8

San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge

The San Francisco-Oakland Bay bridge, opened to traffic on November 12, 1936 as the route for U.S. 40/50, carries Interstate 80 across San Francisco Bay. The span consisted of three segments: the western suspension bridge with four towers, the Yerba Buena Tunnel on Yerba Buena Island, and the eastern cantilever through truss bridge. Earthquake retrofitting between 1994 and 2004 reinforced the suspension bridge west from Yerba Buena Island, bringing the span to current specifications. The eastern span was not reinforced and instead was replaced during an 11 year construction project commencing in 2002. The new Bay Bridge, a single-anchored suspension bridge with a lone tower, opened to traffic on September 2, 2013. This span accommodates side by side traffic rather than a double deck like its predecessor. It ties into a new causeway from the east and includes a bike/pedestrian path to Yerba Buena Island. The old bridge closed on August 28, 2012 and dismantling efforts continue into 2016.

The last section of Interstate 80 to be completed in any state was the segment west of Salt Lake City, Utah, between Redwood Road and 5600 West. This section was dedicated and opened to traffic on August 22, 1986, and it was the first transcontinental Interstate highway to be completed from coast to coast. 7

Interstate 80 traverses the wide open expanse of the Great Salt Lake Desert between Wendover and Knolls, Utah. A 36.6 mile exit less stretch ensues west from Old Highway 40 in this scene. 07/03/16

For a history of the completion of Interstate 80 in Wyoming, visit Interstate 80 – Wyoming .

A ribbon cutting ceremony preceded a motorcade led by Governor Frank Morrison on August 12, 1961 to celebrate the completion of Interstate 80 between Omaha and Lincoln. The 52 mile long stretch was dedicated at the Greenwood interchange. 14 The final link of Interstate 80 in Nebraska opened was the section around Sidney on October 19, 1974. 7

Long range plans originally called for the expansion of Interstate 80 in Nebraska to three lanes from Lincoln west to near Kearney. The project schedule was divided into phases: Phase 1 – between Omaha and Lincoln originally slated for completion by 2012 (final work at Exit 395 wrapped up Spring 2016); Phase 2 – between Lincoln and York originally proposed for completion by 2022; Phase 3 – between York and Grand Island originally proposed for completion by 2028; and Phase 4 – between Grand Island and Minden interchange (Exit 279, N-10) near Kearney originally proposed for completion by 2037. 13 Work west of NW 56th Street and Lincoln was not highlighted on the previous Nebraska Department of Roads – I-80 Six Lane Expansion web page as of 2016.

The 45 mile long project widening Interstate 80 from four to six lanes extended from just west of NW 48th Street in West Lincoln (Exit 395) to the N-370 interchange (Exit 439) in West Omaha. The project began in 2002 and was vastly completed on November 8, 2013 15 , with the exception of eastbound lanes at Lincoln and the diverging diamond interchange (DDI) project at NW 48th Street (Exit 395). This work followed previous projects in the late 1990s and early 2000s that widened I-80 to six lanes between N-370 and Interstate 680, and to ten lanes between I-680 and Interstate 480. 1

In early 2006, widening to six lanes was completed from Ruff Road (Milepost 429) to N-370 (Milepost 439). Expansion followed between the N-66/Mahoney State Park Interchange (Exit 326) and Ruff Road (Milepost 429). This included rebuilding/widening of the long I-80 twin bridges over the Platte River near milepost 427. As of December 2006, the new three lane westbound bridge over the Platte River was under construction while traffic was maintained on the old twin two lane bridges just to the south. The new eastbound span later opened on January 4, 2008, nine months ahead of schedule, as part of an overall eastbound lane expansion between Mahoney State Park and Ruff Road. Removal of the old bridges and side work continued to Fall 2008. The $45 million project to replace the Platte River bridges started in August 2002. 16

Meanwhile, widening to six lanes through northwest of Lincoln between the U.S. 77 South / Beatrice Interchange (Exit 397) and the Interstate 180/U.S. 34 Interchange (Exit 401) was slated for completion in early 2007. Just east of here, widening/rebuilding of the mainline commenced in early 2007 for the section between Interstate 180 and the U.S. 77 North/56th Street Interchange (Exit 405). However, the actual interchange between I-80 and I-180 was not rebuilt until late in the overall project (2010-2012). 12 Widening of I-80 between Exits 420 (Greenwood) and 426 was completed in July 2012. 17

The DDI at NW 48th Street was built as part of I-80 expansion west from U.S. 77 (Exit 397) to NW 56th Street. The $30 million project ran from 2014 to 2016. 18

1956 plans for Interstate 80 provided for a route to traverse the Platte River across most of Nebraska, but did not specify whether the corridor would travel to the north or south of the waterway. The Iowa Highway Commission meanwhile opted for the I-80 mainline to run west from near Minden to the I-29 corridor at Loveland. Commissioners touted benefits to the Sioux City area while officials further south in Council Bluffs and Omaha were vehemently opposed, citing the need for improved connectivity to the growing Union Stock Yards in South Omaha. Adding to the debate was the north Omaha area and operators of the Mormon Bridge, which touted stimulating the Florence area and increasing revenue for the toll bridge.

Advocates pushing for the Council Bluffs and metropolitan Omaha corridor appealed to the federal government with the “Neola Diagonal,” the angled alignment I-80 takes today southwest from Neola to I-29 at Council Bluffs. Federal officials initially regarded the Diagonal as a secondary route, while Iowa and Nebraska continued to debate over the path of the main route. The Iowa Highway Commission won out temporarily, as it opted to route I-80 to Loveland and construct it ahead of the secondary route. The Loveland section opened in December 1966 as Interstate 80N. The Neola Diagonal was completed three years later as the I-80 mainline. 23

Omaha-Council Bluffs

Interstate 80 across Omaha, from Harrison Street (near Exit 442) to the Iowa state line, was rebuilt over a ten year period starting in the Spring of 1989. The $325 million overhaul included expanding I-80 from six to ten lanes between I-680 and I-480. Work corrected flaws with the original design of the interchange at Interstate 480 and the Kennedy Freeway, where the I-80 mainline narrowed to a single lane. The project also rebuilt the I-80/680 interchange with c/d roadways to separate local traffic and made other system wide improvements. Work was completed two months ahead of schedule in August 1999 with the final segment involving I-80 east and west of the 60th Street interchange (Exit 450). 20,21,22

The Council Bluffs Interstate System Improvement Program reconfigured the concurrent section of I-29 and I-80 through Council Bluffs, Iowa and I-80 northeast to Exit 8 with U.S. 6 east at Kanesville Boulevard. Work underway from January 2017 to August 2021 expanded the overlap into a dual freeway. The West and East System Interchanges joining the two routes were redesigned to eliminate of all left side movements with new high speed flyovers. Four local interchanges along Interstate 80 were also redesigned. Prior work between 2008 and 2012 expanded the Missouri River Bridge to seven lanes with the option to restripe the span to accommodate ten overall lanes

Phase I of the East System Interchange was completed from July 2014 to March 2016. Phase II, including I-29 at the U.S. 275/Iowa 92 interchange and the West System Interchange, was finished between May 2017 and October 2018. Phase III, which completes work at the East System Interchange, ran through September 2021 June 2020. Further east, construction for the Madison Avenue Interchange got underway in November 2021 and continues to May 2024.

Route Information

West End – San Francisco, CA

East End – Ridgefield Park, NJ

Branch Routes – 22

Total Mileage – 2,900.76

California – 199.24

Cities – San Francisco, Oakland, El Cerrito, Pinole, Vallejo, Fairfield, Vacaville, Davis, Sacramento, Auburn, Truckee

Nevada – 410.67

Cities – Verdi, Reno, Sparks, Fernley, Lovelock, Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, Carlin, Elko, Wendover

Utah – 197.51*

Cities – Salt Lake City, Park City, Echo

Wyoming – 402.76

Cities – Evanston, Lyman, Green River, Rock Springs, Rawlins, Laramie, Cheyenne, Pine Bluffs

Nebraska – 455.32

Cities – Kimball, Sidney, Ogallala, North Platte, Lexington, Kearney, Grand Island, Seward, York, Lincoln, Omaha

Iowa – 303.23**

Cities – Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Newton, Iowa City, Davenport

Illinois – 163.52***

• Cities – Moline, Genesco, Princeton, La Salle, Ottawa, Morris, Joliet, Chicago

Indiana – 151.56#

Cities – Hammond, Gary, South Bend, Elkhart

Ohio – 237.48##

Cities – Toledo, Elyria, Cleveland, Youngstown

Pennsylvania – 311.12

Cities – Sharon, Mercer, Clarion, Dubois, Milton, Bloomsburg, Stroudsburg

New Jersey – 68.35

Cities – Paterson, Hackensack, Tenneck

Source: December 31, 2021 Interstate Route Log and Finders List * – 3.31 miles on I-15 ** – 3.00 miles on I-29, 14.29 miles on I-35 *** – 2.48 miles on I-94, 5.32 miles on I-294 # – 135.60 miles on I-90, 16.05 miles on I-94 ## – 142.80 miles on I-90

I-80 Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT)

Source: Caltrans, Traffic Operations Program – Traffic and Vehicle Data Systems [2002] The Annual Traffic Report [2001] (Nevada Department of Transportation) Utah Department of Transportation – Traffic on Utah’s Highways 2001 2002 Wyoming Vehicle Mile Book (WYDOT) 2002 Traffic Flow Map of the State Highways (State of Nebraska) INDOT Traffic Count Database System (TCDS) 2018 AADT ODOT Traffic Data Management System 2018 AADT Pennsylvania Traffic Volume Map 2017 (PennDOT)

I-80 was dropped from the Central Freeway at the same time Interstate 480 along the Embarcadero Freeway was decommissioned in 1965.

Short stretches of Interstate 80 in northwestern Nevada were complete in 1962: Between Mustang (Exit 23) and Exit 43 west of Fernley and northeast through the Fortymile Desert to Humboldt Sink.

U.S. 40 was upgraded to a freeway by 1962 for Interstate 80 between Golconda and Pumpernickel Valley, including the stretch through Golconda Summit (elevation 5,159 feet).

Interstate 80 progresses east from the Great Salt Lake Desert and Knolls, Utah toward Ripple Valley and the distant Cedar Mountains. 07/03/16

Interstate 80 ended at Kimball, Nebraska from the west and Chappell, Nebraska from the east until 1974, when the stretch by Sidney opened to traffic.

Interstate 80N traveled 17 miles east from I-29 at Loveland to I-80 near Minden, Iowa. The route was incorporated into an extended I-680 from Omaha as approved by AASHTO on November 10, 1973.

The 57.8-mile stretch of I-80 between Iowa 146 and Coral Ridge Avenue (former U.S. 218) in Iowa City completed the high speed route between Des Moines and the Quad Cities when it opened in October 1964.

The original alignment proposed for Interstate 80 took the route south from the Ohio Turnpike near Norwalk along a parallel alignment to SR 18 to Medina, Akron and the Youngstown vicinity. I-80 later shifted northward to the turnpike, but with a loop using what later became I-480. I-80 between Akron and Youngstown was later incorporated into I-80S and then I-76, while the route west from I-77 was never built.

Interstate 80 was constructed in stages across the Hawkeye State. From west to east, the segments opened as follows: 2

• Nebraska State Line east to Interstate 29 North: December 15, 1972
• Interstate 29 North to Iowa 192: November 1, 1970
• Iowa 192 to U.S. 6: January 1, 1969
• U.S. 6 to Interstate 880: December 22, 1969
• Interstate 880 to U.S. 59: December 13, 1966
• U.S. 59 to U.S. 71: December 16, 1965
• U.S. 71 to Exit 75, Adair: September 5, 1960
• Exit 75 to Iowa 25: November 28, 1959
• Iowa 25 to U.S. 6 (Adel): September 5, 1960
• U.S. 6 (Adel) to Interstate 235 East: December 13, 1966
• Interstate 235 East to Douglas Avenue: September 21, 1958
• Douglas Avenue to Iowa 28: November 8, 1958
• Iowa 28 to Interstate 235 South: November 28, 1959
• Interstate 235 South to Exit 159: October 8, 1962
• Exit 159 to Iowa 146: November 16, 1962
• Iowa 146 to Old U.S. 218: October 23, 1964
• Old U.S. 218 to Iowa 1: November 15, 1963
• Iowa 1 to Iowa 38 North: August 24, 1962
• Iowa 38 North to U.S. 61: December 1, 1960
• U.S. 61 to U.S. 67: November 25, 1964
• U.S. 67 to Illinois State Line, including the Mississippi River Bridge: October 27, 1966

A proposal arose by 1991 to reroute Interstate 80 over I-280 from northwest Davenport to Colona, Illinois, with Interstate 74 trading places with the existing I-80 around the north and east sides of the Quad Cities. The renumbering was sought to improve safety by eliminating the TOTSO (turn off to stay on) movements at the Big X interchange, the cloverleaf where Interstate 74, I-80 and I-280 meet in Illinois. It never came to pass because Iowa officials did not support the efforts from those in Illinois. See the Interstate 280 Iowa / Illinois guide for more details.

Much of Interstate 80 across northern Illinois was constructed in the early 1960s, with the route through south suburban Chicagoland opened to traffic by 1964. The section that I-80 shares with Interstate 294 / Tri-State Tollway was constructed between 1956-1958, with the tollway opening in 1958. The original construction of the 83 mile long section of the Tri-State Tollway, and the other original tollways, was funded by a bond issuance in the amount of $415 million by the state tollway commission created in 1953. 11 The Kingery Expressway section of I-80/94 and U.S. 6 is the oldest section of I-80, having opened in 1950. 10

The Tri-State Tollway was reconstructed between January 2005 and Fall 2006 from the exchange with IL 394 and I-94 in South Holland northwest to the U.S. 12-20/95th Street interchange in Oak Lawn. 3 The project included the installation of an additional through lane on I-80 and I-294. The Cal-Sag Channel Bridge near Alsip was planned for reconstruction, as were the Lincoln Oasis and the Markham Yard Bridge.

A companion project undertaken between January 2005 and July 2007 was the reconstruction of the Kingery Expressway in Illinois and the Borman Expressway in Indiana. Average daily traffic flow on I-80/94 was approximately 160,000 vehicles daily, with a quarter being large trucks. 4 For the Kingery Expressway (I-80/94-U.S. 6), improvements included:

• Revision and reconstruction of the I-80, I-94, I-294, and IL 394 interchange
• Expansion to eight through lanes for through traffic on Interstate 80
• Reduction of weaving through reconfigured interchanges
• Installation of sound walls, replacement lighting, and landscaping

Within Indiana, the Borman Expressway carries I-80/94 and U.S. 6 through Hammond and Gary. Most of the same improvements considered for the Kingery Expressway were likewise included in the Borman Expressway upgrade. Construction began in 2003. Work ran through Summer 2011 and included an $189 -million upgrade to the interchange with Interstate 65. 5 Another proposal is to construct a south Chicago bypass, the Illiana Expressway , that could divert traffic from I-80/94 around the Chicago/Northeast Indiana metro area.

Most of Interstate 80 across the Buckeye State was constructed as part of the Ohio Turnpike, the origins of which predate the establishment of the Interstate Highway System in 1956. The Ohio state legislature created the Ohio Turnpike Commission in 1949, which was the first step in designing and constructing the cross state highway. 38 months of construction began on October 27, 1952, and the toll road was completed on October 1, 1955. 6

159 miles of the Ohio Turnpike were expanded to six overall lanes in a nearly two decade long project. First announced by the Ohio Turnpike Commission in April 1995, widening of the toll road was ultimately paid for by a toll increase of more than 80%. The added lanes run from U.S. 20 in Toledo east to the I-80 junction with I-76 outside Youngstown.

Work was slow with three sections entailing 59.3 miles completed by 1997. The initial 2000 completion date announced by the Turnpike Commission was moved back to 2004, then 2008. By 2004, expansion was completed except for three segments: I-280 to I-75, I-75 to U.S. 20 (Reynolds Road) and a four mile stretch east of the Cuyahoga River. The I-280 to I-75 stretch in Toledo was finished in 2007, however the economic turn down of the late 2000s led the Turnpike Commission to defer funding from the remaining two sections to instead replace its toll collection system. E-ZPass was implemented along the turnpike in 2009 upon completion of the $50 million upgrade.

A $33.5 million contract added a third lane in each direction of I-80/90 between I-75 and U.S. 20 started in early 2013. This added to the nearly $750 million total expenditure for the overall expansion project. The final 4.6 miles of the project were finished by November 2014. 19

• Pennsylvania

Just prior to Exit 111 with PA 153 south of Penfield, westbound Interstate 80 crests at the highest point east of the Mississippi River. Located within Moshannon State Forest along Pennsylvania’s section of the Appalachian Mountains, this location reaches 2,250 feet above sea level. Advancing west, I-80 leaves the Chesapeake Bay watershed and enters the Allegheny River watershed.

The Keystone Shortway, which carries Interstate 80 across Pennsylvania, was completed and fully opened to traffic on September 17, 1963. The last segment to be opened to traffic was the section from Stroudsburg to Scotrun. 7

All segments of Interstate 80 were opened to traffic within the Garden State by November 1973. 24

 Photo Guides

East end – ridgefield park, new jersey.

Several miles ahead of the Interstate 80 terminus, the eastbound freeway splits into Express and Local lanes. The I-80 Express lanes have no exits from the partition to I-95 while the Local lanes provide access to Hackensack and other nearby communities. The dual freeway configuration extends east along Interstate 95 to the George Washington Bridge Upper and Lower Level separation at Fort Lee. 12/19/16

Interstate 80 travels below grade across the Bogota borough and Ridgefield Park village line. The route ends one half mile ahead at an unnumbered directional T interchange. 12/19/16

End signs for Interstate 80 appear above both the Local and Express Lanes as the freeway passes below Park Avenue along the Teaneck township and Ridgefield Park line. NJDOT typically posts end / begin signage at transitions of one freeway to another. Other examples are posted for I-676 south, Route 3 east and I-195 west. 12/19/16

Ramps depart from both the Local and Express lanes of I-80 at the Teaneck Road overpass for I-95 and the New Jersey Turnpike south to U.S. 46 at Ridgefield Park, Newark and Trenton. A final off-ramp (Exit 73 to Route 67) departs from the I-80 Express lanes before the roadway defaults onto the George Washington Bridge Upper Level. 12/19/16

Interstate 80 concludes a 2,900 mile plus journey across 11 states. The Local Lanes advance east to Fort Lee and the George Washington Bridge. NY 9A (Henry Hudson Parkway) lies five miles ahead at the first exit in Manhattan. 12/19/16

Beyond the Lincoln Tunnel interchange and near Bellmans Creek, the NJ Turnpike East Spur advances to the merge with the West Spur, where a dual freeway configuration commences north. The forthcoming inside lanes lead directly to I-80 while the outside lanes continue to Englewood and the George Washington Bridge approach. 05/31/22

The East and West Spurs of the NJ Turnpike combine just north of the Vince Lombardi Service Area. A wye interchange provides two lanes from the East Spur for I-80 west to Hackensack and Patterson. 05/31/22

New signs were installed in 2022 along the I-95 East Spur at I-80. The I-95 mainline follows the outer roadway to a cloverleaf interchange with U.S. 46 at Ridgefield Park. 05/31/22

The New Jersey Turnpike splits into East and West Spurs around Secaucus. The separation disperses traffic to I-280 west through Newark, Route 495 east to the Lincoln Tunnel and Route 3 to the Meadowlands. The spurs recombine at Overpeck Creek, 1.5 miles ahead of the Interstate 80 east end. 12/19/16

The West Spur (unsigned I-95W) ends with a slip ramp taking motorists onto the inner roadway bound for Interstate 80 west and two lanes merging with the outer roadway ahead of U.S. 46, Challenger Road, and the eastern turn of I-95 to the George Washington Bridge. 12/19/16

The inner roadway of I-95 leading north from the NJ Turnpike defaults travelers onto Interstate 80 west. I-80 separates into a Local / Express configuration to Paterson. 05/31/22

The Local / Express configuration of I-80 extends east onto I-95 toward the Upper and Lower Level split of the George Washington Bridge. The Local lanes of I-80 west provide access to all off-ramps while the Express lanes advance uninterrupted to Route 17 (Exit 63) at Lodi. 05/31/22

A three lane flyover branches west to slip ramps with I-80 Local to Hackensack and I-80 Express to Paterson and Netcong. 05/31/22

West from the directional-T interchange with I-95, Interstate 80 passes through Bogota and Ridgefield Park to Hackensack. 05/31/22

Passing below the Route 67 (Lemoine Avenue) overpass, the Upper Level of the George Washington Bridge transitions into the Express Lanes of I-95 south / I-80 west. 12/17/17

Succeeding ramps depart for U.S. 1-9 south / U.S. 46 (Bergen Boulevard) west (Exit 72B) and the I-95 south / I-80 west Local lanes at Route 4 (Exit 72). 12/17/17

U.S. 1/9/46 separate from I-95 to Palisades Park. U.S. 46 parallels Interstate 80 west to Ridgefield Park and Teterboro. 12/17/17

The Lower Level of the George Washington Bridge forms the Local Lanes for Interstate 95 leading west from Fort Lee to Leonia. Both the Express and Local Lanes eventually connect with I-80 west toward Paterson. 12/17/17

The c/d roadway for Route 4 (Exit 72) links the I-95 Express Lanes with the Local Lanes two miles ahead of Interstate 80 (Exit 69). 12/17/17

Interstate 95 arcs 1.25 miles west as a dual freeway to the westbound beginning of Interstate 80 in Teaneck township. The Local Lanes meet Degraw Avenue prior to I-80. 12/17/17

Nearing the crossing of Overpeck Creek along the Local Lanes of Interstate 95 south. The Local / Express Lanes extend west along I-80 through Hackensack. The continuation of both roadways are signed as Exit 69, which coincidentally is one mile higher than the I-80 mileage to the Pennsylvania state line. 12/17/17

Advancing west from the cloverleaf interchange with Degraw Avenue, simultaneous exit ramps depart from both roadways to I-95 and the New Jersey Turnpike south to Newark. Tolling commences along I-95 beyond the adjacent interchange with U.S. 46 (Winant Avenue) at Ridgefield Park. 12/17/17

Two lanes proceed west from southbound I-95 onto Interstate 80. I-80 winds through urban areas of Hackensack and Paterson to suburban areas of Parsippany-Troy Hills, Dover and Netcong. 12/17/17

The first confirming marker for Interstate 80 west appears after the wye interchange (Exit 66) to Kennedy and Hudson Streets in Hackensack. 12/19/16

East End Throwback

Traffic emerges from the George Washington Bridge Lower Level to circumvent the eastbound toll plaza ahead of the Route 67 (Lemione Avenue) overpass. A button copy overhead directed motorists to remain along the I-95 mainline as it progressed west to I-80. This sign was replaced by late 2000 with a diagrammatic sign. Photo taken by Jim K. Georges (07/99).

As the Upper Level roadway transitioned into the Express Lanes, a set of button copy signs directed motorists onto the Local Lanes as Route 4. These trapezoidal type signs used to be found along I-95 between Fort Lee and the Cross-Bronx Expressway in New York. Photo taken by Jim K. Georges (07/99).

Button copy sign formerly posted at the Fletcher Avenue overpass for the impending ramp to both Route 4 north and the I-95 Local Lanes. Photo taken by Jim K. Georges (07/99).

The Local and Express Lanes of I-95 progressed south to Teaneck and the split with Interstate 80 west at Exit 69. Photo taken by Jim K. Georges (07/98).

Another set of button copy signs preceded the directional T interchange (Exit 69) with I-80 on I-95 Express south. I-80 connects with the Garden State Parkway at Exit 62. Photo taken by Jim K. Georges (07/99).

All guide signs along Interstate 95 leading west to the New Jersey Turnpike and I-80 were replaced in 2017 to be MUTCD complaint. 12/19/16

West End San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge / Embarcadero – San Francisco, California

Interstate 80 passes through the Yerba Buena Island tunnel and emerges on the suspension bridge portion of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Bridge construction began on July 9, 1933, and it opened to traffic on November 12, 1936, as part of U.S. 40-50. I-80 replaced U.S. 40-50 legislatively in 1964, and signs were removed in the ensuing decade. Photo taken 03/09/15.

The San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge reaches back to back ramps for Fremont Street (Exit 2C) and Harrison Street (Exit 2B) to Chinatown, the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf. The Fremont Street exit also connects to Interstate 280 via surface streets. 07/11/18

Exits 2 C/2 B lower from I-80 as the freeway transitions onto a viaduct ahead of the directional T interchange with U.S. 101. The Folsom-Fremont exit is the site of the former Embarcadero Freeway (SR 480) interchange. The freeway spur along SR 480 was dismantled after sustaining major damage during the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. 07/06/22

Left Exit 2 A follows from Interstate 80 west to Fifth Street. The Fifth Street exit is the original end of the western approach to the Bay Bridge; it was also the route U.S. 40-50 historically took off the bridge to their shared endpoint at U.S. 101. 07/06/22

Remaining elevated along James Lick Skyway, a viaduct with some sections that predate the Interstate Highway System, I-80 west advances to Exit 1C for Eighth and Harrison Streets. Adjacent Ninth Street leads north to the Civic Center. 03/09/15

Exit 1C parts ways with I-80 (James Lick Skyway) as the freeway turns south to end at U.S. 101. U.S. 101 follows city streets between the Central Freeway spur and the Golden Gate Bridge approach. The route is not advised for truck traffic due to limited sight distance and turning radius. Historically, U.S. 101 was planned for a freeway north to the Golden Gate Bridge. 03/09/15

I-80 ends as traffic partitions at Exits 1 B/A. U.S. 101 north takes the Central Freeway west to Mission Street north to join Van Ness Avenue. The route formerly extended west to Market Street. U.S. 101 south overtakes the freeway leading to South San Francisco, San Mateo and San Jose. 07/06/22

U.S. 101 winds northward between the Bernal Heights and Bayview neighborhoods beyond the exchange with I-280 to meet transcontinental Interstate 80 in 2.25 miles. 03/27/16

A second interchange sequence sign with I-80 appears after the Cesar Chavez Street interchange, one mile south of the split from U.S. 101. U.S. 101 runs between the Inner Mission and Potrero Hill communities to the ensuing Vermont Street off-ramp (Exit 433A). 03/27/16

Passing under 23rd Street along U.S. 101 north. U.S. 101 branches westward at forthcoming I-80 for the Central Freeway spur west to Van Ness Avenue. Seventh Street (Exit 1) is the first off-ramp from Interstate 80 east. 03/27/16

A junction I-80 shield assembly, normally reserved for a side street, appears on the U.S. 101 freeway mainline. U.S. 101 turns onto the Central Freeway west to Van Ness Avenue for the continuation to the Golden Gate Bridge. The number two lane also comprises a left exit for Ninth Street and the Civic Center. 03/27/16

Beyond Interstate 80 and the Central Freeway, U.S. 101 follows Van Ness Avenue, a major route through the city, to Lombard Street and the Golden Gate Bridge. Van Ness Avenue is six lanes wide, but nearly every major intersection is controlled by traffic signals. Trucks are not advised on the route. 03/27/16

The skyline of the City by the Bay spreads across the horizon as Interstate 80 east begins via Exit 433B. The Central Freeway takes U.S. 101 west toward the Octavia Boulevard exit. This section of U.S. 101 was formerly planned as part of I-80 from a proposed to extend the freeway west along the Fell Street/Oak Street corridor to Golden Gate Park and SR 1. 03/27/16

A loop ramp brings U.S. 101 south onto the Central Freeway from Van Ness Avenue. The elevated roadway proceeds east from there directly to Interstate 80. Overtaking the James Lick Freeway south, U.S. 101 forms an important corridor for the West Bay communities of San Bruno, San Mateo, Menlo Park and Palo Alto. 07/06/07

A left side ramp takes motorists from U.S. 101 (Central Freeway) south onto Interstate 80 (James Lick Freeway) east. I-80 travels through South of Market and Yerba Buena to the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge into Alameda County. The city of Oakland is an eight mile drive to the east across the Bay Bridge. 07/06/07

Exit 1 quickly departs I-80 east for Seventh Street after the split with U.S. 101 (Central Freeway) north. The final exit on the San Francisco Peninsula follows for Fourth Street and the Embarcadero. This was the former end of SR 480, which in the mid-1960s was designated I-480. SR 480 (Embarcadero Freeway) partially collapsed in the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. It was demolished by 1993. The unconstructed connection with I-280, which currently ends near AT&T Park, would have met I-80 near that same point. Photo taken 03/27/16

The first shield for Interstate 80 east stands between the travel lanes ahead of Exit 1. 03/27/16

West End Throwback

Upon leaving the suspension portion of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, this set of button copy signs directed motorists to Fremont Street and Folsom Street to the Embarcadero. This sign bridge was replaced in 2006-2007. 10/15/00

Prior to the demolition of the original western approach to the Bay Bridge, a left exit lowered from the Skyway to the Embarcadero and Harrison Street. Exit 2B (Harrison Street) was located just a few hundred feet west of Exit 2C to Fremont Street. 10/15/00

The 5th Street exit from I-80 (James Lick Skyway) west was previously signed as a connection to U.S. 101 north. Back when U.S. 40 and U.S. 50 entered the city via the Bay Bridge, the pair took this ramp to meet U.S. 101 along a surface route. The former main line is now a left exit that connects to U.S. 101 and Van Ness Avenue. 08/23/03

The addition of exit numbers between 2004 and 2007 resulted in sign changes for U.S. 101 south (Exit 1A), U.S. 101 north to the Golden Gate Bridge in place of Mission Street (Exit 1B) and Ninth Street (Exit 1C). 11/29/04

These reflectorized signs at Ninth Street were also replaced between 2004 and 2007. I-80 is one of a handful of Interstates that end at a U.S. Route. Others include I-55 at U.S. 41 in Chicago, I-72 at U.S. 61 in Hannibal, and I-96 at U.S. 31 in Muskegon. 11/29/04

Porcelain enamel signs directed motorists onto U.S. 101 (Central Freeway) north toward the Golden Gate Bridge and U.S. 101 south toward San Jose. Photos taken by Kelly Kawamoto (11/07/93).

Sign replacements made at the I-80 west end replaced Golden Gate Bridge with Mission Street for the Central Freeway spur. A portion of the Central Freeway was demolished by the late 1990s. It was replaced by Octavia Boulevard, an at-grade parkway, by 2005. 11/29/04

U.S. 101 was temporarily omitted on signs for the Central Freeway, with U.S. 101 through traffic directed instead onto the Seventh Street exit from I-80 east. This was done to reduce traffic flowing onto the Central Freeway stub. 11/29/04

During the early and mid 2000s, U.S. 101 north was temporarily detoured onto Seventh Street from I-80 due to the Octavia Boulevard construction project. Upon completion of the work, U.S. 101 was restored on the Central Freeway alignment. 11/29/04

Signs at the I-80 east and U.S. 101 northbound partition were also altered due to the Octavia Boulevard construction project. 11/29/04

• Ryan Wanek, personal email, “Update to I-80 page on interstate-guide.com,” 12/09/04 and the official Nebraska Department of Roads webpage. http://doroads.nol.org/projects/6-lanes-i-80/index.htm”
• “ Iowa Completion Status of Interstate System as of January 1, 1982. ” Iowa Department of Transportation.
• Tri-State Tollway: Interstate 294 South Reconstruction – official site
• Kingery Expressway Reconstruction – official site http://www.kingeryexpressway.com/
• “After seven years Borman Expressway backups in rear view mirror.” Indiana Economic Digest, August 19, 2011.
• Ohio Turnpike History – official site http://www.ohioturnpike.org/history.html
• Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Eisenhower Interstate Highway System: Previous Interstate Facts of the Day by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
• California Celebrates 50 Years of the Interstate Highway System by Caltrans (California Department of Transportation).
• Images of America: The Bay Bridge by Paul C. Trimble and John C. Alioto, Jr., Arcadia Publishing, 2004.
• Encyclopedia of Chicago: Expressways by Dennis McClendon of the Chicago Historical Society
• Encyclopedia of Chicago: Tollways by David M. Young of the Chicago Historical Society
• Ryan Wanek, personal email, “Re: More Updates from Nebraska,” 12/19/06
• “Completion of I-80’s western leg is pushed to 2037.” Omaha World-Herald , December 18, 2006
• “Photofiles: Interstate 80 dedication in 1961.” Journal Star (Lincoln, NE), November 7, 2013.
• “I-80 Construction Project Almost Done.” WOWT (Omaha, NE), November 5, 2013.
• “New, wider stretch of I-80 opens.” Journal Star (Lincoln, NE), January 4, 2008.
• “East and west closer to meeting on widened I-80” Journal Star (Lincoln, NE), October 18, 2012.
• “State, city ready to begin work on diverging diamond at Northwest 48th Street” Journal Star (Lincoln, NE), January 27, 2014.
• “2 decades later, widening of turnpike finally finished – New lane open between Maumee, Perrysburg exits” The Blade (Toledo, OH) November 13, 2014.
• “Rebuilding of Interstate Is Set to Begin in 1987.” Omaha World-Herald (NE), September 8, 1985.
• “Decade of Work Money and Traffic Limit Speed of I-80 Rebuilding.” Omaha World-Herald (NE), April 5, 1989.
• “I-80 Upgrade Is Complete Billions of Pounds of Concrete, Decade of Work Improve Road The Rebuilding of Interstate 80 in Omaha.” Omaha World-Herald (NE), August 24, 1999.
• “Eisenhower Envisioned Highway Plan in 1919.” Omaha World-Herald (NE), June 29, 1986.
• Interstate 80 (New Jersey). NYCRoads.com.

Page updated July 12, 2022.

NDOT: Parts of I-80 closed due to poor travel conditions

N ORTH PLATTE, Neb. (KNOP) - The Nebraska Department of Transportation reported that, due to high winds, low visibility and poor travel conditions, parts of I-80 will be closed Monday night.

Closed areas include I-80 west from Kearney to North Platte and I-80 east from Wyoming State Line to Lexington.

NDOT requests that drivers adjust their travel plans and find a safe place to stay.

NDOT said crews will work throughout the night to get roadways open as soon as they can.

Click here to subscribe to our KNOP News 2 daily digest and breaking news alerts delivered straight to your email inbox.

i-80 News ... i-80 Weather ...

How this massive Route 80 rehabilitation project will impact N.J. drivers over the next decade

• Updated: Apr. 22, 2024, 6:06 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 22, 2024, 12:59 p.m.
• Larry Higgs | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

In 1962, the Beatles were a hit in Europe and just being discovered in America.

That year, Route 80 started pushing its way through Bergen and Passaic counties along with a string of overpasses carrying local streets over it, all built between 1962 and 1971.

These aging spans are tired and state Department of Transportation officials have proposed a massive, $900 million, 10-year construction project to replace the nine bridges and rebuild and widen part of the expressway underneath them between Totowa and Hackensack.

“The bridges were built during the original (Route 80) construction,” said NJDOT spokesperson Steve Schapiro. “Of the nine bridges being replaced, the oldest was built in 1962, five were built in 1963, one in 1964, one in 1965, and one in 1971.”

Those bridges are feeling their age. Three of the bridges made the American Road & Transportation Builder Association list of the top 10 most traveled deteriorated bridges in the state, based on Federal Highway Administration data.

“A number of bridge decks, superstructures and complete bridges within the project limits need to be replaced due to their poor condition,” he said.

Another 11 bridges will have the superstructures rebuilt and five will get new bridge decks. The project includes reconstructing, or repaving, 28 entrance and exit ramps

The almost 10 miles of highway underneath isn’t in much better condition, with DOT calling the pavement “deteriorated,” the drainage poor and the expressway shoulders substandard.

In addition, the westbound lanes narrow from four to three lanes in Paterson.

“A two-mile section in Paterson has a bottleneck where four lanes are reduced to three lanes that contributes to severe congestion, and crash rates are higher than statewide averages through the project limits,” Schapiro said. “The project is designed to improve all of these issues.”

The project extends from Riverview Drive in Totowa, through Woodland Park, Paterson, Elmwood Park, Saddle Brook, Rochelle Park, Lodi and ends at Polifly Road in Hackensack.

In 2021, the most recent year the DOT has statistics for, there were 1,001 crashes on that stretch of Route 80.

About 1.6 miles of Route 80’s westbound lanes will be widened through Paterson to address those issues. The existing Lakeview Avenue and Trenton Avenue overpass bridges will be reconstructed to accommodate the new lanes, Schapiro said.

“This project will improve the safety, congestion and operation of approximately 10 miles of I-80 westbound in Passaic County and Bergen Counties,” he said.

The project includes building 16 noise barriers to protect neighborhoods.

The timetable for the project is roughly 13 years, starting with preliminary engineering and design being done this year. Construction could start at the end of 2027 and be completed in fall of 2037.

“It is expected that construction will begin on the section being widened in Paterson and the I-80 over Route 17 southbound portion in Lodi, although the project is still in design and construction staging may change,” Schapiro said.

While the DOT will have to buy some private property for the project, no residential properties are expected to be acquired during this phase of the project, he said.

Stories by Larry Higgs

• What you need to know about new federal rules for airline refunds, fees
• These famous fast food places are coming to 4 NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway service areas
• Show the math on $15 fee to drive into parts of lower Manhattan, lawmaker demands

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Larry Higgs may be reached at [email protected] . Follow him on X @CommutingLarry

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North Jersey traffic - road work on I-80 will cause lane closures in Bergen and Morris

Scheduled construction, road work, drainage improvement, utility work, deck work, sign work and installation of conduits will cause daytime lane closures on the George Washington and Bayonne bridges; interstates 80, 280 and 287; U.S. highways 1&9, 9W, 46 and 206; and state routes 15, 17, 21, 23, 208 and 440

WDHA's Rock the Rock Fest comes to the Prudential Center on Thursday and the Mega Mezcla concert will be at the venue on Saturday. Then, the arena hosts the Professional Women's Hockey League on Tuesday.

Visit 511nj.org for up-to-date traffic information and real-time traffic cameras from throughout the state, or call 511.

Story continues below video

Bergen County traffic

• Construction on Route 208 closes the left lane near Cedarhill Avenue, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in both directions on April 24.
• Road work on I-80 closes the westbound right lane near exit 62 in Elmwood Park, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 24.
• On the Garden State Parkway northbound, installation of traffic monitoring systems will close four lanes at the Bergen Toll Plaza in Saddle Brook and up to two lanes between exit 159 in Saddle Brook and exit 165AB in Paramus, 10 p.m. April 24 to 5 a.m. April 25.
• Construction on the George Washington Bridge eastbound will close all lanes on the lower level, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., April 24 to April 26, and 11 p.m. April 26 to 8 a.m. April 27; the right lane on the both levels, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., April 25 and April 26; and the right lane on the lower level, 8 a.m. April 27 to 8 a.m. April 28.
• Drainage improvement on Route 17 closes the northbound right lane near Highland Cross in Rutherford, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 26. Bridge inspection will close the southbound right lane near I-80 in Lodi 9 p.m. April 24 to 5 a.m. April 25.
• On Route 9W , construction closes the northbound right lane near Charlotte Place in Englewood Cliffs, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 26.
• Deck work on Route 46 will close the eastbound left lane near the New Jersey Turnpike in Ridgefield Park, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. through April 27.
• Daytime utility work will close various local roads in Tenafly and Englewood through May 10.

Are you a collector? American Pickers' are coming to NJ, maybe you have their next pick

Essex County traffic

• Construction on Route 21 southbound closes the right lane between Grafton and Riverside avenues in Newark, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 24.
• Utility work on Route 23 closes the right lane in both directions near Bradford Avenue in Cedar Grove, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 25.
• Construction and a traffic shift on the New Jersey Turnpike will close the outer roadway southbound between exit 14 in Newark and exit 6 in Mansfield, 9 p.m. April 24 to 6 a.m. April 26; and the eastern spur northbound between Newark and Ridgefield, 9 p.m. April 26 to 6 a.m. April 27, and 10 p.m. April 28 to 4 a.m. April 29.
• The Prudential Center hosts WDHA's Rock the Rock Fest featuring Staind, Seether, the Struts and more at 5:30 p.m. April 25. The Mega Mezcla concert - featuring Alex Sensation, Myke Towers, Eladio Carrion and more - comes to the venue at 8 p.m. April 27. On April 30, the Professional Women's Hockey League returns as New York faces Ottawa at 7 p.m.
• Road work on I-280 closes the westbound left lane between exit 7 in West Orange and exit 5 Roseland, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 26; and between exits 15 and 13 in Newark, 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. through April 27.

Hudson County traffic

• On Tonnelle Avenue southbound in North Bergen, deck work closes the left lane near Route 495 in North Bergen, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 24. Sign work and utility work will close the right lane between Paterson Plank Road and 44th Street in North Bergen, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and near Route 495, 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., through April 25.
• On Route 440 northbound, the left lane will be closed for road maintenance and utility work near Communipaw Avenue in Jersey City, 8 p.m. April 25 to 4 a.m. April 26; and for bridge inspection near Pulaski Street in Bayonne, noon to 2 p.m. April 30.
• Construction in the Lincoln Tunnel will close the south tube eastbound 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. through April 26.
• Construction in the Holland Tunnel will close one lane in the south tube eastbound, 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. through April 26.
• On Route 3 , drainage improvement will close the right lane on the eastbound service road between Harmon Cove and Paterson Plank Road in Secaucus, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. through April 26. Construction and bridge work will close up to two westbound lanes between the New Jersey Turnpike in Secaucus and Paterson Plank Road in East Rutherford, 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through April 27.
• Construction on the Bayonne Bridge closes the right lane in both directions 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26.
• At Red Bull Arena in Harrison, the New York Red Bulls take on the Vancouver Whitecaps at 7:30 p.m. April 27 and NY/NJ Gotham faces Racing Louisville at 5 p.m. April 28.

Morris County traffic

• Construction on Route 46 will close the eastbound right lane near Beverwyck Road in Parsippany, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 24; and one lane in each direction near I-287, 8 p.m. April 24 to 6 a.m. April 25. Drainage improvement closes the eastbound right lane near Mountain Avenue in Washington, 4 to 9 p.m. April 24. Construction and installation of conduits closes the right lane in both directions between I-80 in Denville and I-287 in Parsippany, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 26.
• On I-80 , road work closes one eastbound lane near exit 45 in Parsippany, 10 p.m. April 24 to 5 a.m. April 25; and one westbound lane near exit 30 in Roxbury and Mount Arlington, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through April 26, and 8 p.m. April 26 to 10 a.m. April 27.
• Road work on I-287 closes the left lane northbound near exit 37 in Morris and the southbound near exit 42 in Parsippany, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 25.
• Construction on Route 15 closes two lanes in both directions near Berkshire Valley Road in Rockaway and Jefferson, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 26; and the southbound exit ramp to Espanong and Weldon roads in Jefferson, continuously through April 26.

Passaic County traffic

• On Route 46, construction will close the eastbound right lane between Route 20 in Clifton and River Drive in Elmwood Park, 8 p.m. April 25 to 4 a.m. April 26. Utility work will close all lanes intermittently in both directions near Paulison Avenue in Clifton, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. through April 27.
• Sign work and tree trimming on the Garden State Parkway northbound closes the ramp to exit 153 in Clifton, 10 p.m. April 25 to 5 a.m. April 26.
• Construction on Route 23 northbound closes the right lane near Paterson Hamburg Turnpike in West Milford, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 26.
• On Route 20, construction closes the right lane in both directions between Route 46 in Clifton and E. 24th St. in Paterson, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 26.

Sussex County traffic

• On Route 206 southbound, curb work closes the right lane near Lackawanna Drive in Byram, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 26.

This 8-foot-long ‘saber-toothed’ salmon wasn’t quite what we thought

For years, paleontologists thought this ancient salmon was like a saber-toothed cat, but now facial reconstruction offers a brand new look.

When paleontologists announced the discovery of the largest salmon to have ever lived in 1972, they thought they had found the aquatic equivalent of the saber-toothed cats that roamed the landscape when this fish was alive between 12 and 5 million years ago.

The eight-foot-long fish was believed to have had two curved teeth jutting down from its upper jaw. But now, a new reconstruction has fundamentally altered the face of this iconic fish, proposing instead that its impressive teeth stuck out sideways from its snout—like a warthog.

In an April study published in PLOS ONE , experts present a new vision of the spike-toothed salmon, formally known as Oncorhynchus rastrosus . The changes to the salmon’s face reflect new knowledge about the fish gleaned from the fossil record. In 2016 , paleontologists found that the ancient salmon’s distinctive teeth changed as the fish aged, growing as the salmon reached adulthood and transitioned from the sea to freshwater.  

This study, by Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine paleoecologist Kerin Claeson and colleagues, now finds that the fish’s famous teeth stuck out sideways like tusks.

A bold new look

Refining what the fish looked like rested on both new fossil finds and a reanalysis of the first fossils to be described half a century ago. Among the earliest finds, the part of the jaws holding the prominent teeth were disarticulated from the rest of the skull. “Part of the reason why scientists didn’t recognize the position of the teeth at first was because they were all found in isolation,” Claeson says. A downward, saber-like position seemed reasonable given that no other known fish had such teeth.  

But in 2014, paleontologists searching a locality in Oregon found new fossil skulls of Oncorhynchus rastrosus that showed the prominent teeth still in articulation. Combined with CT scans of the original finds, the new fossils confirmed that different sexes of the spike-toothed salmon had the prominent teeth in adulthood.

Finding the spikes on different salmon sexes came as a surprise to the researchers. “When I talked to the collectors of the 2014 fossils, they kept finding fossils in close proximity in such a way they were likely breeding pairs, which both possessed the enormous spikes,” Claeson says. All spike-toothed salmon started to go through skull changes as they approached adulthood, each fish growing the iconic spikes.

“The new reconstruction is supported by very convincing evidence,” notes University of Alberta paleontologist Mark Wilson, who was not involved in the new study. The fact that the spikes were found as a species-wide trait, he noted, is especially remarkable.

Naturally, the unusual nature of the spikes has led paleontologists to wonder why such features evolved and what they were used for. Previous research indicated that some of the teeth in adult fish were blunted and worn, hinting that they were rubbing against hard surfaces. Perhaps the fish were using the teeth to scrape and move sediment in constructing nests, and could have also been helpful in defending those nests from other fish looking to dig their own divots in the riverbed.

Claeson and colleagues prefer a defensive function for the spikes. The prehistoric salmon, just like their living counterparts, swam with side-to-side motions of the body. Their strongest muscles were devoted to these movements, and also would have allowed the fish to take strong swings against predators or other rivals. Not all experts agree, though. Wilson notes that the fish could have been using the spikes to dig nesting areas, and males could have been using the spikes to intimidate competitors for mates during spawning season.  

Regardless of whether the fish were using the spikes for defense or in competition, the teeth were surely formidable. “Imagine a one-pound geology hammer, sharpened, and wielded by 200 pounds of lateral muscle,” Claeson says. The salmon is no longer a sabertooth, but its teeth were just as formidable.

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• PALEONTOLOGY
• FRESHWATER FISH

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