Project Update: U.S. 11 Bridge Closure
Wednesday, January 08, 2020 at 2:46:50 PM
Slidell, LA - The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces the latest update on the U.S. 11 Bridge closure between Slidell and New Orleans. The contractor, American Bridge Co., continues work to reconstruct the two draw bridges on the U.S. 11 bridge span.

This $28.36 million project, which began August 2018, includes concrete and structural repairs, grid deck replacement, painting, installation of a new fender system, and the rehabilitation of electrical and mechanical systems on the two draw bridges. This project is a major reconstruction of the two draw bridges in which the project contract time is three years.

When work on the draw bridges began in November 2018, the U.S. 11 bridge was closed to traffic, though was reopened during the Thanksgiving and Christmas/ New Year holidays. It was anticipated that the bridge would reopen for the 2019 Easter holiday and close soon thereafter to continue work on the draw bridges. Due to unforeseen problems with the rehabilitation of the structural supports, the bridge had to remain closed. Another anticipated short-term opening of the bridge in the winter months of 2019 was canceled as the work on one of the bridges during the current construction phase was not able to be completed as scheduled.

Although the remaining work will not allow the use of the bridge by vehicular traffic, construction is estimated to be substantially completed by summer 2020 to open for vehicle traffic. Currently, the entire project is ahead of schedule and is open to marine traffic with a horizontal restriction of 70 feet.

All construction activity is weather dependent and may be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. DOTD appreciates the motoring public’s patience and reminds drivers to please exercise caution when traveling through work zone areas and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information.