Work is underway to replace the LA 544 bridge (Tech Drive) over I-20 in Ruston. State transportation officials say the bridge was originally built in 1963 and has outlived its usefulness. Erin Buchanan with DOTD says the overpass replacement is not the only component of this four-year, $39 million project.
“We’ll also be building some roundabouts, as part of this project, to help the traffic flow too,” Buchanan said.
There will be two roundabouts north of I-20 and one south of I-20, and they will replace the traffic lights that are currently at those intersections. Buchanan says those who normally take the 544 bridge will still be able to do so during construction.
“We’re going to be able to leave the existing bridge in place while we build a new one directly next to it. So, as far as traffic be able to access that overpass, they’ll still be able to do that,” Buchanan explained.
Buchanan says they will try to keep traffic disruptions to a minimum during the project.
“Of course, with any project, you’re going to have to have lane closures and intermittent traffic disruptions and things like that. But, for the most part, traffic will be flowing as it typically does,” Buchanan noted.
The lane closures on I-20 are to ensure the safety of both workers and travelers, since work cannot be done over live traffic.