August 25, 2025

Waco Braces for Baylor Football Season Opener Traffic Delays

here-intlog
August 25, 2025
7:09 am
Milwaukee

News Summary

As the Baylor Bears gear up for their football season opener against Auburn, Waco anticipates significant traffic delays due to ongoing construction. With lane closures on I-35 and other routes impacted, city officials encourage fans to plan ahead. Recommended alternate routes include La Salle Avenue and Loop 340 to manage congestion. Baylor University is collaborating with the Texas Department of Transportation to mitigate traffic issues, and fans are urged to arrive early to enjoy pre-game festivities. Real-time traffic updates will be available on the City of Waco’s website.

Waco Prepares for Baylor Football Season Opener with Expected Traffic Delays

The city of Waco is anticipating increased traffic delays as the Baylor Bears kick off their football season against Auburn on August 29. Fans traveling to McLane Stadium should prepare for unexpected road obstacles due to ongoing construction and lane closures affecting routes to the stadium.

Since the summer, construction on I-35 south of Baylor has resulted in lane closures that have significantly affected traffic flow. As game day approaches, Senior Associate Athletics Director Drew Pittman has reported that traffic congestion is likely to increase due to the expected surge in fan attendance for the season opener.

Traffic disruptions will be evident as certain southbound exits, including the one located across from Chick-fil-A, have been closed recently as part of the construction works. As a result, fans are advised to allocate additional time for their commute to the stadium and to consider alternate routes to ease the journey.

Alternate Routes Recommended

Waco President Linda Livingstone has acknowledged the considerable impact of construction on traffic for the August 29 game. To assist drivers, she has recommended using La Salle Avenue or Loop 340 to connect with I-35 or to access different parts of Waco on game night. These alternate routes are expected to help alleviate some of the traffic concerns stemming from the construction.

Impact of Sewer Project

In addition to the construction on I-35, a sewer relocation project on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, located west of the interstate, may further complicate traffic conditions for attendees.

Collaboration with TxDOT

Amid these challenges, Baylor University has been working closely with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to adjust traffic control plans. The goal is to ensure a smooth entry and exit for fans attending the game at McLane Stadium.

To improve the overall game day experience, fans are encouraged to arrive early and participate in pre-game tailgating events that foster fellowship and camaraderie among attendees. Pittman highlighted the significance of the social aspect of game days, as gatherings add to the excitement of the sporting event.

Fans looking for up-to-date road closure information and traffic reports can find the necessary details on the City of Waco’s website, which will provide real-time updates to help individuals plan their travel effectively.