On Friday, Shawn Wilson, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), joined state and local officials to celebrate the I-10 widening project.
The project, from La. 328 to La. 347, widened 5.37 miles from four lanes of the interstate between I-49 and the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge to six lanes for an estimated $87.7 million.
“What you’re witnessing today is the return on investment of a commitment made to the people of Acadiana, but whose benefits will be shared by all,” Wilson said. “As a commuter who has traversed this corridor for over 20 years, I know all too well the need to invest in this corridor. As DOTD Secretary, I also know that the benefits will be a testament to the contributions infrastructure investments can have on to the local, regional, and national economies.”
Officials said the project also included removing the two existing bridges over Melvin Dupuis Road and replacing them at ground level, then constructing a two-lane bridge to serve as Melvin Dupuis Road over the interstate. Additionally, the project install 54-inch concrete media barriers, as well as raised markers and rumble strips.
“As a major freight corridor, Interstate 10 is one of the most heavily traveled corridors across Louisiana,” said Louisiana state Sen. Gerald Boudreaux (D-District 24). “This project signifies that not only are we committed to enhancing transportation systems in Acadiana, but that we’re also committed to the safety and economic growth of our communities.”
The section of I-10 serves more than 70,000 cars per day and provides a direct connection to I-49, a corridor to industry and tourism in the Acadiana region.