West Pearl River Bridge remains closed as designs for U.S. 90 bridges continues
Thursday, December 08, 2022 at 8:52:11 AM
Slidell- The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces an update on the West Pearl River Bridge in St. Tammany Parish.

The West Pearl Bridge on U.S. 90 was closed on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, after inspectors found that the deterioration of the steel truss had reached a point where it was no longer safe for the traveling public. At this time, the bridge was closed indefinitely.

Following the closure of the West Pearl, DOTD closed three additional bridges along this route, as they also need to be replaced. While the West Pearl is the most notable bridge along the stretch, all four bridges within Louisiana must be replaced before the corridor can be re-opened.

Like the West Pearl, all of the bridges on this part of the route are more than 90 years old. We estimate letting this project in the second quarter of 2025, dependent on the availability of funding and public input on the proposed alternatives. Assuming funding is available, we anticipate a three year construction duration.

Like motorists and commuters, we want this route to reopen, but safety is our main focus and priority.

DOTD also understands some travelers use this corridor as a hurricane evacuation route. Should a storm approach, Louisiana has several major north/south routes that will allow traffic to travel north from the coast. Drivers are strongly encouraged to utilize a north/south route because east/west routes usually experience major traffic congestion during an evacuation. Louisiana residents are encouraged to get a game plan and to know what route they will take should evacuating be necessary. As always, the key is to plan ahead and evacuate before it is too late.

Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or by downloading the 511 app. We also encourage the public to sign up for MyDOTD alerts. MyDOTD is a great way to stay up-to-date on local projects, lane and road statuses, and other DOTD activity.

Detour/Alternate Route:
Eastbound motorists may use U.S. 190 west to U.S. 190 Business (Fremaux Ave.) to I-10 eastbound. Proceed on I-10 east to MS 607 to U.S. 90 east.
Westbound motorists may use MS 607 to I-10 westbound. Proceed on I-10 west to U.S. 190 Business (Fremaux Ave.) to U.S. 190 east.