The $2.5-million project will lower the height of the roadway approximately 3.5 feet in the westbound direction and four feet in the eastbound direction as it runs under the interstate, achieving a minimum vertical clearance of 17.5 feet.
The underpass is located just west of the Louisiana National Guard’s Camp Minden training facility, and is a haul route frequently used by Minden-based Fibrebond Corporation. Previously, the underpass was too low to accommodate Fibrebond’s specially manufactured loads.
Gov. Edwards and DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson, Ph.D. announced in October 2019 plans to expedite multiple projects to strengthen the ability of Fibrebond and other manufacturers to access heavy-haul routes that serve their needs. As part of that commitment, the US 80 bridge over Boone Creek in Dixie Inn was replaced using in-house DOTD resources in half the time originally scheduled.
“DOTD employees in multiple areas worked efficiently to ensure this US 80 lowering project moved from conception to construction expeditiously,” Wilson said. “We always have been and always will be committed to doing everything in our power to drive economic development, and attract and retain employers across Louisiana.”
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The project also includes the installation of drainage structures, roadway barriers, and revetment work. The entire project is anticipated to be complete in fall 2020.
