PROJECT UPDATE: Cheniere Lake Bridge & Spillway replacement, Ouachita Parish
Friday, June 24, 2022 at 12:54:13 PM
PROJECT UPDATE: Cheniere Lake Bridge & Spillway replacement, Ouachita Parish
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises the public that the Cheniere Lake Bridge and Spillway replacement project in West Monroe, Ouachita Parish continues to make progress.
This unique $9.5 million project involved removing the existing bridge and spillway on LA 3033 as they were connected and operated as one structure. Construction involves building a new bridge on LA 3033 and separated fixed crest weir that will operate independently to manage the waterway.
The contractor has completed Phase 1 of the project, which includes construction of the new spillway structure and substructure of the bridge. The substructure includes components such as columns and abutments.
The contractor is currently moving forward with Phase 2 – removal of the old bridge and spillway, as well as related embankment work, and continued construction of the new bridge.
Barn swallows were recently observed nesting under the caps of the new bridge. These birds are included in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which prohibits disturbing the active nests of these and other protected species of birds.
The contractor continues to work on other components of the project, including demolition of the old bridge and spillway while exploring options to mitigate requirements of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Overall, this project will serve to significantly improve water level control and maintenance activities on the lake, which is managed by the Ouachita Parish Police Jury.
The new bridge will serve motorists for many years to come, with travel inconveniences related to spillway management eliminated through the separation of the two structures.
The entire project is anticipated to be complete in early 2023, weather permitting.
Contact information:
Erin Buchanan
Public Information Officer
Monroe District
(318) 549-8402
erin.buchanan@la.gov
Cheniere Lake Bridge & Spillway replacement project, Ouachita Parish (Photo source: DOTD)