UPDATE - EMERGENCY LANE CLOSURE: I-49 northbound near Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek), Rapides Parish
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 6:09:27 PM
UPDATE - EMERGENCY LANE CLOSURE: I-49 northbound near Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek), Rapides Parish
(UPDATE 2/10/2026): DOTD advises motorists that the project to repair the bridge along I-49 northbound in Rapides Parish that was impacted by an 18-wheeler in December is scheduled to begin the week of February 16, 2026.
This project is anticipated to wrap up in mid-March 2026, weather and other factors permitting.
This bridge is located approximately one mile north of Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek). The lane closure that is currently in place will remain so while repair work is underway.
DOTD will issue another update when the repairs are complete and the lane has been reopened.
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Original notification - 12/19/2025:
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that the northbound inside (left) lane of I-49 northbound in Rapides Parish, approximately one mile north of Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek), is closed.
This lane closure is necessary due to a crash involving an 18-wheeler that impacted a bridge piling along I-49.
This lane will remain closed until repairs can be conducted, which is anticipated to be several weeks. A more specific time frame will be available once the bridge inspected is conducted and a repair plan is formalized.
Restrictions/Permits: Oversized loads are to detour utilizing US 71. All other vehicles – no detour is necessary.
Alternate Route: N/A
Safety reminder:
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.
Additional information:
Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.
Contact Information:
Erin Buchanan
DOTD Public Information Officer
Alexandria District
(318) 549-8402
[email protected]
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