DOTD to begin LiDAR scanning along I-10
Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at 9:17:55 AM
Baton Rouge, La. - The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces that motorists may see slow moving traffic during non-peak hours along portions of I-10 in East and West Baton Rouge Parishes on Feb. 16-Feb. 19. Survey work is scheduled for these days as part of the environmental phase of the I-10 widening project in the Capital Region.

Crews will be traveling along I-10 from LA 415 (Lobdell) to LA 3064 (Essen Lane) on both I-10 and I-12 scanning this corridor using Mobile Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology. LiDAR scanning is a surveying method used to measure distance by using laser lights that make digital 3-D representations of the intended target.

“Using the most up-to-date technology not only helps the state make the best decisions possible on major projects such as the I-10 widening in Baton Rouge, but also eases some of the inconvenience on area travelers,” said DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson, Ph.D. “Using the Mobile Light Detection and Ranging technology means there are no land closures, just slow moving traffic at times.”

The Mobile LiDAR method is extremely cost beneficial to the state, as it will assist in expediting the Topography survey delivery schedule for DOTD designers, prevents multiple lane closures throughout the corridor, though some will be necessary at night, and reduce the number of conventional survey crews needed to perform the survey. DOTD has used this technology in previous projects throughout the state, and it has been proven to be a useful tool in the Topography Survey Process.

This activity will not have any lane closures associated with it, however, it will cause traffic to slow down due to police blocking traffic, similar to a funeral procession. The mobile LiDAR scanning will continue through the week, driving along the surface streets and interstate along the vicinity of this project.

Surveying is weather dependent and will be performed during the day between peak hours.

Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions by going to www.511la.org. You can also download the 511la.org app to your smartphone or use the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from your telephone and saying the route or region where you 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 Web site at www.511la.org.