Complete closure from 10 PM to 4 AM Friday forces commuters to find alternate routes

Rolling closure from 10 PM to 4 AM Friday with right lane restrictions starting at 7 PM

PORT ALLEN – The LA-1 northbound bridge will have rolling closures overnight Thursday as crews install temporary striping and signage on the Intracoastal Bridge, with motorists experiencing intermittent delays during the 10 PM to 4 AM work period.

The rolling closure means traffic will be stopped periodically rather than completely blocked for the entire six-hour window, though significant delays are still expected during the overnight work.

Closure Details

Rolling Closures: 10 PM Thursday to 4 AM Friday Lane Restrictions Begin Earlier: Right lane closes at 7 PM Thursday Work Purpose: Installation of temporary striping and signage Weather Dependent: Work could be postponed if conditions are unfavorable

Expect Delays, Not Complete Shutdown

During the rolling closures, traffic will be stopped periodically to allow crews to work safely, but the bridge will not be completely closed for the entire six-hour period. Motorists should expect significant delays and plan extra travel time during the work window.

The intermittent nature of rolling closures means drivers can still cross the bridge, but should be prepared for extended wait times as traffic is stopped and released in phases.

Official DOTD Notice

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development issued an official notice Tuesday regarding the LA-1 NB I-10 Eastbound Exit Ramp Diversion closure. The work is part of the LA-1 Port Allen Canal Bridge Replacement (Phase II) project H.014258.

Contractor Contact Information: Manning Bennett
JB James Construction, LLC
(225) 485-9468

DOTD emphasizes that the closures are weather-dependent and could be postponed if conditions are unfavorable.

The temporary striping and signage installation will facilitate traffic management during the next phases of construction, which include removal of the original bridge structures and completion of the northbound span.

Safety Emphasis

DOTD officials emphasize the importance of driver caution during the work period and beyond.

"DOTD urges all drivers to reduce speed, obey posted signage, and remain alert for construction personnel and equipment operating in the work zone," officials said.

The overnight timing aims to minimize traffic impact, but the complete closure during typically lighter traffic hours could still affect evening and early morning commuters.

Long-Term Project

The bridge replacement project continues as part of DOTD's broader effort to modernize critical transportation infrastructure. The aging Intracoastal Bridge serves as both a daily commuter route and a major hurricane evacuation route for the region.

The project timeline extends through multiple phases, with significant work remaining on both bridge demolition and completion of permanent traffic configurations.

Planning Your Route

Commuters should:

• Allow extra travel time during affected hours
• Plan alternate routes before Thursday evening
• Monitor weather conditions, as work could be postponed
• Stay alert for construction personnel and equipment

This is a developing story. Check WBRIndependent.com for updates on weather delays or schedule changes.

For traffic updates and alternate route suggestions, contact DOTD or monitor their official channels.