Gov. Landry, state and local leaders break ground on Jimmie Davis Bridge project
SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY – Today, Governor Jeff Landry joined the Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Joe Donahue and numerous state and local leaders for a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the official kick-off of construction of the new Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) crossing the Red River, connecting Caddo and Bossier Parishes.
The $360 million project will provide a new four-lane bridge across the river in the communities of south Shreveport and Bossier City, doubling the current capacity as one the metro area’s five integral river crossings.
“Infrastructure is a vital component to a healthy economy. Our roads, bridges, and transportation networks are what move our state’s people and commerce,” said Governor Landry. “Strategic infrastructure investments – such as this new Jimmie Davis Bridge – are essential for our businesses to thrive in an increasingly global economy, and for our residents to make safe and efficient commutes each and every day.”
Preliminary work such as the clearing and grubbing process along the river bank, as well as the beginning of roadway improvements on LA 511 began in late May 2024, but today’s ceremony was a celebration of a project that has been envisioned by local and state leaders for many years.
“The new Jimmie Davis Bridge is more than simply a bridge,” said Secretary Joe Donahue. “This structure is truly a symbol of growth and development, and is an incredibly substantial investment in our transportation system after years of dedication by numerous stakeholders to the project’s continued development.”
Gov. Jeff Landry, DOTD Sec. Joe Donahue, and numerous state & local elected officials and project stakeholders
celebrate the start of the Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) project in Caddo & Bossier Parishes. (Photo source: DOTD)
“I am thrilled about the construction of the new Jimmie Davis Bridge, a transformative project that will boost the economies of both Shreveport and Bossier City, and serve as a symbol of progress for our community,” added Senator Adam Bass (R-District 36). “The new bridge represents the State of Louisiana’s commitment to building a brighter, more connected future for both cities. I could not be more proud of this momentous change that is already moving forward!”
As with many projects of such size and scope, the history of arriving at the construction phase often comes with several twists and turns along the way. The feasibility stage for a proposed new Jimmie Davis Bridge launched in 2008, and later moving into the environmental phase that included several public outreach meetings to garner feedback from the community.
The environmental phase also included the evaluation of several various design alternatives before arriving at the current selection, which is a modernized four-lane structure with a concrete median divider. The interchange ramps that provide access to the bridge will also be rebuilt as part of this project.
“This ground breaking of the New Jimmie Davis Bridge is a testament of the “Can Do” attitude of Shreveport, Bossier City, Caddo and Bossier Parishes, The Port of Caddo Bossier, the legislative delegation, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, Governors Edwards and Landry, and the men and women of DOTD,” said former state Senator Barrow Peacock. “We all worked together to achieve this ground breaking and will be here to celebrate the completion of the new Jimmie Davis Bridge.”
“Having constituents in south Caddo Parish as well as south Bossier, I am extremely excited about this new bridge connecting these great cities and parishes,” Rep. Dennis Bamburg said (R-District 05). This has been a much needed project in this area for years and I am proud to be part of the beginning stages. Thank you to the legislators before me for making this a priority. I cannot wait for the citizens of Shreveport-Bossier City and the surrounding areas to enjoy the benefits of using the new bridge for their daily activities.”
In addition to the bridge, LA 511 on both sides of the river will be widened and reconstructed to accommodate the alignment of the new structure and to facilitate the anticipated increase in traffic volume as a result of the expanded capacity of the bridge.
“I am thrilled that the new Jimmie Davis Bridge is under construction. This project will not only enhance connectivity between sister cities Shreveport and Bossier City but will also symbolize our commitment to progress and innovation,” Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux said. “This new four-lane bridge represents a crucial investment in our city’s infrastructure, paving the way for safer, more efficient travel and fostering growth in our community for generations to come. I cannot wait to see the positive impact this will have on residents and visitors alike. Thank you to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development for your dedication to this project.”
“Today is a special day for our City and community,” said Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler. “We are honored and grateful to have Governor Landry and Secretary Donahue in our City, and we thank them for their commitment and support for this Jimmie Davis Bridge project. We are fortunate to have leaders that understand that when we invest in our roads and bridges, that we are also investing in our people and our future.”
The Jimmie Davis Bridge is a growing number of Design-Build projects that DOTD is managing, which allows for an expedited timeline through the execution of design and construction simultaneously.
“NLCOG, represented in part by the cities of Shreveport and Bossier City, and the parishes of Caddo and Bossier, is excited to see the construction of the new Jimmie Davis Bridge over the Red River. Moving forward, this new bridge will provide considerable congestion relief between our two cities and completes yet another of our MEGA projects for the region, explained J. Kent Rogers, Executive Director, Northwest LA Council of Governments. “NLCOG wants to thank all of those who have been involved in the process, specifically former Senator Barrow Peacock, for his diligence in helping to secure the much-needed funding.”
During construction, access will be maintained to all residential areas and businesses, though some traffic patterns may change while construction is underway. The new bridge is anticipated to be complete and open to traffic in early 2027.
A webpage dedicated to this project has been created on the DOTD website that includes detour maps, updates, and other helpful resources and information.
Scan QR code to access Jimmie
Davis Bridge project webpage
on the DOTD website.