Red River Rivalry Traffic: I-35 Construction and Dallas Delays
Red River Rivalry Traffic: I-35 Construction and Dallas Delays Could Slow Oklahoma Fans
Oklahoma Sooners fans driving to Dallas for Saturday's Red River Rivalry should prepare for heavy traffic, construction delays and crowded highways as thousands travel south for the annual matchup against the Texas Longhorns. The October 10 game kicks off at 2:30 p.m. at Cotton Bowl Stadium, creating a busy travel weekend along Interstate 35.
While I-35 through Oklahoma remains open, drivers could encounter significant slowdowns after crossing into Texas. Construction near Gainesville and Denton, combined with heavy traffic approaching Dallas, could make the trip considerably longer than usual. Transportation officials encourage fans to monitor road conditions and allow additional travel time.
Red River Rivalry Traffic: I-35 Open in Oklahoma, Texas Construction Ahead
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) reports that all lanes of I-35 are available between Oklahoma City and the Texas state line, with no anticipated game-related closures. Drivers can monitor changing conditions through Drive Oklahoma, the state's official traffic information service.
South of the Red River, construction along I-35 near Gainesville and I-35E through Denton could create bottlenecks as Oklahoma fans join Dallas-area commuters and other game-day travelers. Motorists should anticipate slower speeds, particularly during Saturday's peak arrival period.
Dallas Highways and Cotton Bowl Parking Expected to Be Crowded
Traffic congestion is expected along I-35E, Interstate 30, U.S. Highway 75 and the Dallas North Tollway as fans approach Fair Park. Drivers using Interstate 30 can consider Exit 48A toward Haskell Avenue for access to the stadium area, although surrounding streets may become congested.
The State Fair of Texas opens at 7 a.m., while Cotton Bowl gates open at 11:30 a.m. Early arrivals may have more time to navigate parking, security checkpoints and pedestrian traffic before kickoff.
The State Fair of Texas Red River Rivalry planning guide provides official information about parking, entrances and game-day procedures.
Big Game Train and DART Offer Alternatives to Driving
Fans hoping to avoid highway congestion can consider the Heartland Flyer Big Game Train, offering transportation from Oklahoma City toward the Dallas area for rivalry weekend.
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) will also operate modified Orange and Green Line services, giving visitors an alternative to driving directly into Fair Park.
Travelers should review DART's game-day transportation information before departure, particularly for rail schedules and connections.
With construction, fair traffic and thousands of football fans converging on Dallas, leaving early and checking real-time road conditions could make the difference between arriving comfortably and missing kickoff.
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