RALEIGH, N.C. — The state Department of Transportation will temporarily reduce traffic to one lane on east and westbound Interstate 40 in Durham at the Orange County line Friday night.

The closing is scheduled to take effect at 8 p.m. and reopen 6 a.m. Monday, weather permitting.

Motorists are encouraged to use the following alternate routes:

The DOT says the route from N.C. 147 to I-85 gets little attention, maybe because it is longer. The state Highway Patrol says it also has some payoffs.

"It might not save that much time, but in my opinion, less traffic is safer. Won't have to worry about barricades and construction traffic through there," state Trooper Aaron Glancy said.

The lane closing is necessary as part of the I-40 widening project. The project is anticipated to be complete in late 2005.

Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 55 mph and be aware of construction workers in the work zone. Stay alert and watch signs for construction information.