DOTD to start mitigation project in St. John Parish to address flooding
Monday, July 21, 2014 at 12:13:24 PM
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST PARISH, La. – Today, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces a project to overlay ramps on Interstate10 in St. John Parish to mitigate ramp flooding at the Belle Terre Boulevard/La. 3188 interchange at I-10 during high water events.
Daytime ramp closures will be required for construction of the ramp overlays over a two-week period. Work on the I-10 eastbound on-ramp is expected to begin on Monday, July 28, 2014, and continue through Friday, August 1, 2014. Work is expected to begin on the I-10 westbound off-ramp Monday, August 4, 2014, and continue through Friday, August 8, 2014. Ramp closures will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Motorists may detour via US 51 and US 61 during both closures. DOTD will use in-house forces from the Hammond District to complete the work.
The project is an interim treatment until a future project can be implemented to elevate all ramps within the interchange. Although the I-10 westbound on-ramp will likely remain closed for some time during high water events, all other ramps should be passable once the water level falls to approximately the same elevation as Belle Terre/La. 3188. US 61 would serve as a detour until the westbound on-ramp could be reopened.
All work is expected to be completed in August 2014, which is the heart of hurricane season. The planned construction activities are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. Emergency vehicle access will be allowed during the ramp closures.
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to drive with caution through this and other highway work zones. Also, be alert for the presence of construction workers and equipment.
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).