SHREVEPORT, LA — The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces that work has begun on the first phase of construction to build a new Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) over the Red River in Bossier and Caddo Parishes.

The construction portion of the project is separated into five phases. Phase 1 begins with shoulder reconstruction along LA 511 (Jimmie Davis Highway) on the Bossier City side of the bridge. This work is necessary to be able to accommodate traffic on the shoulders during roadway construction.

Phase 1 also includes subsurface drainage system improvements, installation of temporary pavement at certain locations, ramp construction, concrete median removal along Arthur Ray Teague Parkway in Bossier City, and additional median construction along LA 511 on the Shreveport side.

Phase 1 is anticipated to last approximately six months, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines. Information regarding phase 2 will be provided closer to the start of that portion of the project.

In addition to a new four-lane bridge, the roadway on each side of the bridge will be widened and reconstructed to accommodate two lanes of traffic in each direction, including a raised median and three new median openings for U-turns. This configuration will improve traffic flow and ease congestion, along with enhancing safety along the corridor.

This $360 million design-build project also includes the rehabilitation of the existing structure into a linear park for pedestrians and bicyclists, complete with plantings, seating, playgrounds, and lighting.

The scheduled completion date for the new bridge is late 2026.