Traffic advisories for Delaware State Police trooper's funeral; includes I-95 closures

DOVER, Del. (WPVI) -- A number of traffic advisories are being issued ahead of the funeral for a Delaware State Police trooper on Friday.

Highway closures will begin on Interstate 95 at 6 a.m. as a procession for Cpl. Stephen Ballard moves through.

At that time, the northbound lanes will be closed between the Christiana Mall (Exit 4A) and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard (Exit 6).

It will be opened after the procession of emergency vehicles makes its way to the Chase Center on the Riverfront.

Then, at 8 a.m., the same stretch of I-95 will be closed for another procession of emergency vehicles.

RELATED: Thousands add blue line to cars honoring Delaware State Police Cpl. Stephen Ballard

Watch the report from John Rawlins on Action News at 6 p.m. on May 4, 2017.

Officials warn northbound I-95 traffic will be significantly impacted. Routes DE 896, US 40, DE 273, and US 13 will be used as alternates.

Drivers should expect delays on these routes with the increased diverted volume of traffic, officials said.

The funeral procession will then depart the Riverfront at approximately 12 p.m. and travel to the Gracelawn Cemetery located at 2220 North DuPont Highway, New Castle.

The procession is scheduled to use the following route: Justison Street - Martin Luther King Boulevard - South Market Street - North DuPont Highway - Lovelace Avenue (U-turn) to Gracelawn Memorial Cemetery.

DART will be offering free shuttle service from the Route 273 and Route 7 Park & Ride to the Chase Center at the Wilmington Riverfront beginning at 7 a.m. and ending at 9 a.m. Return service to the Park & Ride from the Chase Center will between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

DART will also be adjusting regular bus services to avoid road closures. Delays can be expected. Commuters can also use SEPTA's Wilmington/Newark Line from Newark and Fairplay Stations to avoid delays. Visit www.dartfirststate.com for more details.

Members of the public wishing to attend the services for Corporal Ballard are asked to use off-site parking as access to the Chase Center will be restricted.

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