Drivers in Utah are advised to prepare for significant travel disruptions this weekend as the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) announces an overnight closure of U.S. Route 189 in Provo Canyon. The closure is scheduled to commence on Saturday, January 17, at 10 p.m. and will last until 4 a.m. on Sunday, January 18. This closure is part of an ongoing construction project aimed at enhancing the roadway and ensuring safety as crews undertake excavation work on the steep hillside adjacent to the highway. The closure will affect the stretch of U.S. 189 between Main Canyon Road in Wallsburg and the intersection of S.R. 113 in Charleston. UDOT officials have indicated that the closure will allow construction teams to safely conduct necessary blasting and excavation activities. This work is critical as part of the project involves shifting the northbound lanes to accommodate road improvements and increase safety for drivers navigating the canyon. Starting at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday evening, crews will initiate the lane closures, gradually transitioning into a full closure of the highway by 10 p.m. During this time, traffic will be completely halted, and drivers are urged to seek alternate routes or plan their travel accordingly to avoid delays. After the overnight closure, traffic conditions will transition to one-way alternating traffic, managed by flaggers, until approximately 9 a.m. on Sunday morning. This arrangement aims to facilitate further clean-up and repairs to any temporary barrier fencing that may have been damaged during the excavation work. Since late December, UDOT crews have been busy with blasting and excavation work, which has necessitated daily closures of U.S. 189 from 10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m., occurring every Monday through Thursday. These daily closures are expected to continue through the end of February, adding another layer of complexity to travel plans for motorists who frequently use this route. UDOT has emphasized the importance of these construction efforts, stating that they are crucial for maintaining the road's structural integrity and improving safety for the increasing number of travelers who traverse Provo Canyon. Construction schedules are inherently weather-dependent, meaning that the timeline for these projects can shift based on various factors, including precipitation and temperature fluctuations. UDOT officials are committed to keeping the public informed about any changes to the planned construction schedule and urge travelers to stay updated. For real-time traffic updates, UDOT encourages drivers to visit the UDOT Traffic website or download their mobile app, available for both iPhone and Android devices. Provo Canyon is not only a vital transportation route but also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, drawing visitors year-round for activities such as hiking, skiing, and sightseeing. As such, the upcoming construction and subsequent closures may impact not only daily commuters but also tourists and recreational users who rely on U.S. 189 to access various outdoor activities. UDOT recognizes the importance of this route for both local residents and visitors and aims to complete the construction work as efficiently as possible while ensuring safety and minimizing inconvenience. As the weekend approaches, UDOT officials are advising all drivers to remain cautious and vigilant during their travels, especially in construction zones where work crews will be present. The agency also emphasizes the need for patience as they work to improve the roadway and enhance safety measures. With increased traffic expected in anticipation of the holiday season, it is crucial for motorists to heed the closures and adjust their travel plans accordingly to avoid any potential delays. In conclusion, the overnight closure of U.S. Route 189 in Provo Canyon is a necessary step in ongoing construction aimed at improving road safety and infrastructure. Motorists are urged to plan ahead, consider alternate travel routes, and stay informed through UDOT’s traffic resources. As winter weather conditions can change rapidly, UDOT will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to ensure the safety and convenience of all travelers in this scenic area of Utah.