Travel alternatives around I-85 overpass collapse

ATLANTA - There are few good options for Atlanta drivers who routinely use Interstate 85 to come and go from Downtown Atlanta. The highway will remain closed indefinitely from I-75 at the Brookwood split to North Druid Hills Road. The Georgia DOT is advising drivers to use Interstate 285 and Interstate 20 if possible to reach their destinations.

Friday morning, authorities closed the on ramps to I-85 South inside Spaghetti Junction north of the collapse site. Traffic was flowing smoothly on I-85 South, but I-285 traffic was very heavy in the Spaghetti Junction area.

Drivers on Interstate 85 headed north will be diverted onto I-75 north at the Brookwood split near 17th Street. Southbound traffic on I-85 will be diverted to Georgia 400 north. Drivers headed south on Georgia 400 will be diverted at the Sidney Marcus Boulevard exit.

Piedmont Road is also closed in the area of the collapse. The detour for Piedmont Road takes drivers onto Sidney Marcus Boulevard, Buford Highway and Cheshire Bridge Road.

Several agencies are working together to try to ease the traffic headaches resulting from the I-85 collapse.

A MARTA spokesperson said the agency is increasing rail services to help ease traffic congestion. In addition, buses that travel along I-85 are being rerouted to Lindbergh Station. Extra representatives will be out helping passengers on Friday. For the latest visit itsmarta.com.

PHOTOS: I-85 fire and overpass collapse

Gwinnett County Transit buses originating in Gwinnett County will detour around using Interstates 285 and 20. Officials said travel times for all vehicles, including buses, will be unpredictable. The latest information is available on Gwinnett County’s website.

The southbound Express Lane will operate at HOV3+ only from 6 to 10 a.m. Friday. State officials said only transit vehicles and vehicles with three or more occupants will be allowed to use the Southbound Express Lane. The signs will change back when the toll goes back into effect. The northbound lanes will not be affected. For more visit peachpass.com.

Commuters are being urged to use MARTA or to work from home on Friday to help reduce the number of vehicles on the roadways.

RELATED: I-85 in Atlanta to remain closed indefinitely