LAKE CHARLES, La. -- The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced today that beginning Monday, November 18, DOTD will increase its Motorist Assistance Patrol service for the I-210 Cove Lane Interchange project currently under construction.

MAP, which offers assistance to disabled interstate motorists, will assign an additional truck to specifically patrol the Cove Lane Interchange construction area and the approaches seven days a week from 6 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. until the project is completed in November 2014.

MAP is a free service sponsored by DOTD to aid stranded interstate motorists and reduce traffic congestion caused by vehicle breakdowns.

The MAP trucks can provide a gallon of gas; change a flat tire; jump-start a car; fill a vehicle radiator with water; and provide the use of a cell phone to make a local call for additional assistance as needed.

The Lake Charles MAP program currently patrols 16 miles of Interstate 10, from Exit 20 in Sulphur to Exit 36 east of Lake Charles, and the 12-mile stretch of Interstate 210.

Studies have shown that four minutes of delay are created for motorists for every minute a disabled vehicle blocks a travel lane. By assisting disabled vehicles, MAP will keep traffic delays to a minimum.

The $38.6 million Cove Lane Interchange project will construct a full interchange at Cove Lane and I-210. In addition, a roundabout will be built at the intersection of Cove Lane and W. Prien Lake Road, and Cove Lane will be extended north to connect with a new public roadway being built by the casino that will parallel I-210 on the north side of the interstate.

Construction began in October 2013 and is estimated for completion in November 2014. 

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