I-220/I-20 Barksdale Air Force Base Interchange Access Project
State Proj. No.:
H.003370
Cost:
$71.8 million
Contractor:
James Construction Group, LLC.
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On May 15, 2019, Governor John Bel Edwards joined Dept. of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D. and numerous state and local officials in breaking ground on the I-220/I-20 Barksdale Air Force Base Interchange Project in Bossier City. The $71.8 million project will create a new access road into BAFB extending southward from the existing I-20/I-220 interchange.
With the support of Gov. Edwards, DOTD pursued approval of the Joint Transportation Committee to utilize the design-build method of project delivery. The design-build method can expedite project delivery by combining the design and construction phases.
This project, as well as two other significant infrastructure projects in other parts of Louisiana, are being funded through the state's first issuance of GARVEE bonds, which are special bonds that will be repaid over 12 years using federal funds allocated to Louisiana.
The new road and gate will take into account projected population growth and increased traffic counts, serve to greatly enhance security, and will alleviate traffic congestion at other base entrance points. It will also improve access times for Barksdale employees and their families, providing easier commutes to schools and other attractions.
The contract for the project was signed on April 24, 2019 and the notice to proceed issued the same day to James Construction Group, LLC. James Construction Group was identified as the successful proposer during a public bid opening held on February 5, 2019. The contractor was one of two that submitted proposals for the 2.5 year long project.
The City of Bossier, Bossier Parish, and the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (NLCOG) all made funding commitments to help ensure the project moved forward.
A public meeting was held on November 5, 2018 at the Bossier City Civic Center to update the public and other stateholders on the status of the environmental phase at that time, and present preliminary design features of the project concepts.
The project was completed in late 2022, with a ribbon cutting ceremony held in February 2023, attended by Gov. John Bel Edwards, DOTD Secretary Wilson, and numerous elected officials and community stakeholders.
Barksdale Air Force Base is currently moving forward with their plans to build a new base entrance and welcome center, at which time the interchange will be fully opened to traffic.
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