SHREVEPORT, LA — The new Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) continues to take shape over the Red River in northwest Louisiana, with the structure fully connected across the river now that girder installation is complete. This marks another milestone for the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development's $361 million project, which involves putting into place a significant piece of infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing southern Shreveport-Bossier City community.
The new four-lane bridge is being constructed immediately north of the existing two-lane structure, and will provide double the traffic capacity crossing the river, along with vastly improved traffic flow for both the eastbound and westbound approaches on LA 511.
Major construction activities continue on the bridge, including components related to the girders themselves, such as cross bracing and diaphragms that stabilize the girders and ensure spacing remains locked in place.
Upcoming work involves another major milestone for the bridge, which is constructing the bridge deck. Extensive widening and reconstruction activities also continue for the LA 511 approaches to the bridge, along with the on- and off-ramps that will provide enhanced connectivity.
The existing Jimmie Davis Bridge, built in 1968, is currently undergoing sandblasting and painting in preparation for its transformation into the state’s first linear park. The linear park will feature walking paths and bicycle lanes that connect to the existing trail system on either side of the river.
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The overall project remains on track to be completed in mid-2027, weather and other factors permitting.
