I-10 reopens after power line closure; westbound delays continue

Interstate 10 has reopened in both directions between Exit 22 (Avalon Boulevard) and Exit 31 (State Road 87) as of 4:30 p.m. Wednesday after a brief closure caused by downed power transmission lines near the Garcon Point Road exit in Bagdad, according to Santa Rosa County Communications.

While the main closure has been cleared, westbound lanes at Mile Marker 35 remain closed due to an unrelated vehicle fire. Drivers are urged to use caution as traffic resumes on the corridor.

Motorgoers can check real-time traffic conditions at FL511.com or the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles traffic incidents portal at trafficincidents.flhsmv.gov.

ECUA starts air-release valve project Monday on 10th Avenue

The Emerald Coast Utilities Authority will begin an air-release valve abandonment project Monday, Oct. 26, within Pensacola city limits, with work expected to wrap up within about a week, weather permitting.

Air-release valves are critical components in water and wastewater pipeline systems that let trapped air escape and keep the system operating properly. The abandonment process involves permanently shutting down a valve and sealing it as part of routine utility maintenance.

ECUA is partnering with Talcon Group, LLC, for the work, which will start on 10th Avenue and move eastward through the city. Residents in the affected areas should expect construction activity during the project period.

City of Pensacola to announce shipbuilding update Friday

The City of Pensacola is hosting a news conference Friday morning to unveil updates on shipbuilding initiatives at the Port of Pensacola, according to a media advisory from the city's public information office.

Mayor D.C. Reeves and federal partners will address attendees at 10 a.m. at the Port of Pensacola, 700 S. Barracks St. The event comes as local officials continue to pursue maritime manufacturing expansion in the region.

Members of the media planning to attend must RSVP to pio@cityofpensacola.com by 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22. Port security will require a valid form of ID and confirmation on the RSVP list. Attendees should arrive at 9:30 a.m. and wear walking shoes, the advisory noted. Mayor Reeves will be available for interviews following the formal presentation.