The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced Monday it had contracted with Kiewit/Boh, a joint venture, to handle the first phase of widening I-10 from LA 415 in West Baton Rouge Parish to the I-10/12 split in East Baton Rouge Parish.
The La. DOTD estimates the project will cost $716 million.
“Since 2016, this administration has been bold in our efforts to prioritize and deliver value-added infrastructure solutions across the state of Louisiana,” said Governor John Bel Edwards. “The innovation, competence, and courage by DOTD and its government and private sector partners to advance the widening of I-10 is a game-changer for this region and for interstate commerce. While not the only solution to regional challenges, it is critical to reducing congestion, fostering economic development, and enhancing the quality of life of those living and working in the vicinity of the project. This is the fourth and final project of our GARVEE initiative announced in 2018 to come to fruition. Simply stated, promise made and promise kept.”
Kiewit/Boh, AJV, was one of the companies that submitted letters of interest and letters of qualifications earlier this year.
The contractor will be responsible for the construction of phase one of the project, which will include reconstruction of I-10 and adding another lane in each direction; modifications to several interchanges; associated work like noise barriers, lighting, guide signs, traffic signals, and pedestrian or bicyclist accommodations; roundabouts at several interchanges; and maintenance of traffic during construction.
“This is a historic development for the progress and growth of Baton Rouge, the likes of which we haven’t seen since the initial construction of the Interstate system,” said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson. “The state’s first urban redevelopment in half a century has been much needed for many years, but lack of funds, financial planning, and political will prevented it from happening. These projects will be done in phases to minimize impacts on the traveling public. This is another example of this administration moving big-ticket projects that have been on the books for years.”
Construction on the project is expected to begin in late 2022.