Slidell, La. - Today, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced that the parking area at the Southbound I-59 Slidell Rest Area (Milepoint 2.2) will be open for passenger vehicles only, beginning at 6 a.m. on Monday, September 16, and continuing for approximately three months until Monday, December 16.  During this time, crews will be enlarging the parking lot and ramps to better accommodate large vehicles.  Recreational vehicles, vehicles with trailers attached, 18-wheeler vehicles and other large vehicles will not be able to utilize the parking lot for this time period. 

Emergency vehicles will have access.

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.