New I-12 West alignment and Essen Ln. on-ramp closure scheduled for February 22
Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 9:06:01 AM
Baton Rouge, LA – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announces that traffic on I-12 westbound will shift to pass under the new I-10 westbound overpass beginning at 5 a.m. on Saturday, February 22. This change is part of the ongoing construction of the College Drive Flyover Project, bringing crews closer to project completion.

This shift represents a significant change for I-12 westbound drivers, who are accustomed to merging with I-10 westbound traffic from the right side of the interstate. Under the new configuration, the I-12 westbound lanes will move to the left before the merge, becoming the left lanes of I-10 westbound. This new traffic pattern will be permanent.

For a visual representation of the new configuration, please refer to the attached illustration.

Additionally, on February 22, crews will temporarily close the I-12 westbound on ramp at Essen Lane for approximately 6-8 weeks. During this closure, the right lane of I-12 westbound approaching Essen will be designated as an “exit only” lane for the I-10 eastbound exit ramp. The remaining two I-12 westbound lanes will continue to the I-10/I-12 merge.

Drivers are advised to use the following detour during the closure:
  • Essen Lane south to the I-10 westbound on ramp.
These closures are essential for the completion of the new I-10 and I-12 westbound College Drive exit ramps. Once completed, the I-12 westbound on ramp at Essen Lane will reopen, and both I-10 and I-12 westbound will feature dedicated right lane exits to College Drive.

Safety Reminder:
DOTD urges all drivers to be patient with fellow motorists who are adjusting to the new traffic patterns. Please exercise caution in work zones and adhere to posted speed limits and other construction related signage.

Additional Information:
For detailed information on the College Drive Flyover project please visit www.collegeflyover.com. Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.