BOSSIER CITY, LA — Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development (DOTD) Secretary Glenn Ledet joined state and local leaders to cut the ribbon and celebrate the official completion of the $128 million I-20 Major Rehabilitation Project in Bossier and Caddo parishes.
“The I-20 project is a testament to what we can accomplish when collaboration is at the forefront and everyone works toward a common goal, which is to deliver a large-scale investment that positively impacts the quality of life for thousands of citizens,” Governor Jeff Landry said. “Executing such a vast infrastructure improvement also demonstrates government accountability, effective project management, and a commitment to delivering on our promises.”
The project, noted as being one of the largest investments in the I-20 corridor in many years, included a total rebuild of all the travel lanes and ramps at five interchanges from near Hamilton Road to LA 782-2 (Industrial Drive) in Bossier City, Louisiana.
“The I-20 major rehabilitation project was a transformational investment in one of the most vital transportation corridors in not only Louisiana, but also across the entire southern United States,“ Ledet said. “Meaningful advancements like this one help ensure reliability, safety, and resilience — all of which are essential to strengthening the larger transportation network.”
The original pavement and roadway base were all removed down to the dirt and fully reconstructed with all new material, the first project of its kind for this section of interstate since it was built in the 1960s.
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The project also included extensive concrete panel replacements across the Red River on sections of I-20 in Shreveport, drainage structure installation and improvements, new overhead signage and related components, updated street lighting, new barrier wall and headlight glare screens, and fresh roadway striping and reflectorized pavement markings.
“The completion of the I-20 rehabilitation project is a tremendous milestone for Bossier City and our entire region. This investment strengthens one of Louisiana’s most important transportation corridors, improving safety, mobility, and the overall driving experience for thousands of residents, businesses, and visitors who rely on it every day,” Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler said. “We appreciate the LA DOTD, our state leaders, contractors, and everyone involved in bringing this project to completion. Bossier City looks forward to the economic opportunities and continued growth that improved infrastructure helps make possible.”
Prior to the start of the project, which was awarded to JB James Construction LLC, this 3.5-mile stretch of I-20 had been patched by DOTD maintenance crews, but had outlived its useful service life after 60 years.
This vital reconstruction work not only provides a smooth, pleasant commute for the 80,000 to 100,000 vehicles who travel it daily, but it also lays the foundation for continued economic development and the modernized connectivity expected of an interstate system in a busy metropolitan area.
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Work began in September 2023, with all major construction work such as concrete paving having been completed in late 2025, remaining on schedule through consistent communication between DOTD and the contractor. Final items, including permanent roadway striping and signage, were accomplished over the last several months.
