DOTD Announces They Can Move Forward With Louisiana I-10 Bridge

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced a big step forward in the project to replace the aging I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles. With a $2.3 billion price tag, this project is one of the largest in the state’s history. The Notice to Proceed has been issued, meaning that construction can officially begin.

Governor Jeff Landry expressed his excitement about the project moving forward. “Since I took office in January, my administration has been focused on starting this critical project. Reaching the Notice to Proceed shows our commitment to improving and modernizing Louisiana’s infrastructure,” he said.

DOTD Secretary Joe Donahue also emphasized the importance of the project. “Every day, tens of thousands of drivers cross the outdated bridge. A new bridge is long overdue, and this milestone puts us closer than ever to seeing construction start on this essential project,” he stated.

The project is a public-private partnership between DOTD and Calcasieu Bridge Partners (CBP), who signed an agreement in January. The project will be funded through a mix of state and federal funds, totaling $1.2 billion, with the rest covered by toll revenue. However, tolls will not be charged until the new bridge is open.

The new bridge will be part of a 5.5-mile stretch of improvements from Ryan Street in Lake Charles to the I-210 and I-10 interchange in Westlake. In addition to the bridge itself, the project will include new interstate roadways, ramps, service roads, and interchanges at PPG Drive, Sampson Street, and North Lakeshore/Ryan Street. To help traffic flow, Sampson Street will be elevated over the railroad tracks.

The current I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge is over 70 years old and was built before the interstate system. Unlike most modern bridges, it is narrow, has steep approaches, and lacks shoulders and lighting. The new bridge will address these issues, with a design that includes more lanes, full shoulders, and proper lighting.

Preliminary work on the project could begin as early as this year, with the entire project expected to take about seven years to complete. Once finished, Calcasieu Bridge Partners will operate and maintain the bridge for up to 50 years.

Governor Landry and Secretary Donahue also highlighted the potential economic benefits of the project. The state will retain nearly 15 percent of toll revenues after paying for construction, maintenance, and debt service costs. This money could be used to lower toll rates, shorten the 50-year toll period, or fund other transportation projects in Southwest Louisiana.

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