This $57.7-million project will replace the current southbound bridge with a new bridge that will be constructed on the west side of the existing structure, in addition to realigning Ernest Wilson Drive and LA 1 to connect with the new bridge.
“This project has been on the books for many years, and I am happy that we can finally break ground on this critical project here in West Baton Rouge Parish,” Wilson said. “Once this bridge replacement project is completed, it will provide much relief to the residents in this community, allowing for a separated exit lane for the Mississippi River Bridge.”
The southbound bridge replacement is phase one of a two-phased project. The second phase, which is scheduled to go to bid summer 2023, will remove both of the existing original bridges and construct a new northbound bridge, as well as replace frontage roads on the south side of the bridge. Once both phases are completed, there will be a new southbound bridge that has three 12-foot lanes and 10-foot shoulders and a new northbound bridge with two 12-foot lanes and 10-foot shoulders and a barrier separated exit lane for I-10 eastbound.
The contractor, Kiewit Louisiana Co., is anticipated to be completed with phase one summer 2023, weather permitting.
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