The Nevada Department of Transportation announced on May 8 that it will implement overnight ramp closures along I-215 beginning Tuesday, May 12, to test and calibrate newly installed wrong-way driver alert systems. The closures are part of the recently completed I-215 Preservation Project and will affect westbound off-ramps to Las Vegas Boulevard, Warm Springs Road, and Windmill Lane.
According to the announcement, the schedule is as follows: from 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12 to 5 a.m. Wednesday, May 13, the westbound I-215 off-ramp to Warm Springs Road and Las Vegas Boulevard will be closed, along with Hidden Well Road between Gilespie Street and Las Vegas Boulevard. On Wednesday night into Thursday morning (May 13–14), the westbound I-215 off-ramp to Windmill Lane will be closed. On Thursday night into Friday morning (May 14–15), closures will again include the westbound off-ramps to Windmill Lane, Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas Boulevard, and Hidden Well Road between Gilespie Street and Las Vegas Boulevard.
Wrong-way driver alert systems use radar and camera technology to detect vehicles entering freeway ramps in the wrong direction. If a wrong-way driver is detected, flashing “Wrong Way” signs activate to notify drivers they are entering incorrectly. “Impairment is a leading factor in many wrong-way driving crashes in Nevada. Depending on the year, between 60% and 100% of wrong-way crash drivers tested in Nevada showed signs of impairment. In addition to existing ‘Wrong Way’ and ‘Do Not Enter’ signage on freeway ramps, these systems provide another layer of warning designed to help prevent serious and deadly crashes before they happen,” according to the Nevada Department of Transportation.
Motorists are advised to use caution while traveling through work zones and take alternate detour routes if possible. NDOT works with Waze to inform the public about planned highway restrictions; schedules may change due to weather or other factors.
The Nevada Department of Transportation promotes roadway safety through programs targeting zero fatalities; advances multimodal planning for aviation, public transit, freight, bicycle and pedestrian needs; organizes operations through three districts in Las Vegas, Sparks and Elko; manages about 5,400 miles of highways statewide; aims for a reliable transportation system that boosts safety; is overseen by a seven-member board; and covers southern, northwest and northeast Nevada through its districts—all according to the official website.
Additional state highway information can be found at dot.nv.gov or by calling (775) 888-7000. For current highway conditions visit nvroads.com or call 511 before driving. Updates are also available via @NevadaDOTVegas on X for southern Nevada traffic news or @nevadadot on X, Facebook, and Instagram for statewide updates. More details are available in the organization’s press release.
