UPDATE: I-35 lanes have been reopened.
A big-rig accident that happened early Friday morning has caused a huge traffic problem for commuters along I-35 at FM 3009. And that congestion continues to stack up as crews try to clean up and de-greasing the roadways.
According to authorities, an 18-wheeler headed southbound on I-35 had a blowout, causing the driver to veer and strike the divider at Exit 175. The rig burst into flames. The driver was able to escape without injuries.
The tractor portion of the rig was completely destroyed along with at least the front half of the trailer. The trailer was reportedly loaded with frozen pork fat - that liquefied under all the heat.
The goal was to get at least one lane open by 10 a.m. but that has now been pushed back to as late as noon.
A Schertz spokesman said the debris is pretty intense, extending up several hundreds yards and up the exit ramp. Oil cleanup is a big part of that job.
If you are heading toward I-35 southbound, find an alternative route out of New Braunfels.
