The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) today announced changes to the Motorist Assistance Patrol (MAP) Program vehicles. The program will now utilize extended-cab trucks instead of vans.

“This is a great enhancement for this program,” said DOTD Secretary Sherri H. Lebas, P.E. “These new trucks will be able to access more locations along the roadway and provide additional safety for the public and our drivers while at the same time helping to reduce delays on the interstate.”

The first of the new trucks were activated in Baton Rouge this week and will help to better assist stranded motorists. Additionally, the trucks will be able to perform and maneuver over rough terrain and in construction zones. New Orleans will activate their new trucks next week with Shreveport activating their new trucks in the next 2-3 weeks.

“Each truck is outfitted with storage compartments on each side allowing the operator to access equipment and supplies on either side and stay clear of traffic” said DOTD Intelligent Traffic Systems Director Steve Glascock. “It provides a great deal of added safety and convenience for our drivers and the public.”

The MAP Program assists motorists, improves traffic flow and reduces traffic congestion caused by stalled vehicles, while at the same time, providing safety and comfort to those stranded.

MAP provides multiple patrols in four locations across the state.

In the Baton Rouge area, three trucks patrol (plus one backup) I-10 from LA 415 to LA 42 (Highland Road), I-110 from I-10 to US 61 (Airline Highway), and I-12 from I-10 to LA 447 (Walker) seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. 7:30 p.m. One tow truck is utilized for the I-10 Mississippi River Bridge crossing weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

In the New Orleans area, five trucks patrol (plus one backup) I-10 from Loyola Avenue to I-510, the entire stretch of I-610, and US 90 Business from the I-10 interchange to the Crescent City Connection Bridge seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. 7:30 p.m. One tow truck is utilized for the I-10 High Rise Bridge crossing weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

In the Shreveport area, three trucks patrol (plus one back-up) I-20 from I-220 west to I-220 east, the entire stretch of I-220, LA 3132 from I-20 from to I-49, and I-49 from LA 3132 to I-20 seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. 7:30 p.m.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is committed to delivering transportation and public works systems that enhance the quality of life. In addition to more than 16,600 miles of roadway, including over 890 miles of interstate, DOTD supports the development of the state’s aviation, marine and rail infrastructures. Through this work, we are able to facilitate economic development, create job opportunities, improve vital evacuation routes, and make critical freight corridors safer and more efficient.

For more information, please visit www.dotd.la.gov, email dotdcs@la.gov, or call DOTD’s Customer Service Center at (225) 379-1232 or 1-877-4LADOTD (1-877-452-3683). Business hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Motorists can access up-to-date travel information by dialing 511 or by visiting www.511la.org. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).

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www.dotd.la.gov