UPDATE - US 84 bridge replacement underway at Bourbeaux Bayou, Natchitoches Parish
Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 4:14:06 PM
UPDATE - US 84 Bridge Replacement Underway at Bourbeaux Bayou, Natchitoches Parish
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises the public that construction is now underway to replace the box culvert on US 84 at Bourbeaux Bayou near Clarence in Natchitoches Parish.
This box culvert, which prompted the closure of US 84 in August 2026 due to the condition of the structure, is located approximately 1.35 miles east of US 71. The decision to close the roadway was made to ensure the safety of the traveling public.
Work to replace the structure is anticipated to take approximately 10 weeks, and US 84 is expected to reopen to traffic in January 2027, weather permitting.
US 84 will remain closed at Bourbeaux Bayou during construction. Motorists should continue to use the posted detour utilizing US 71 and LA 477, as described below.
Detour Route
Eastbound US 84 Traffic
Motorists traveling eastbound on US 84 will detour by turning south onto US 71 at the intersection of US 71/US 84/LA 6. Traffic will continue south on US 71 for approximately 6.1 miles to the intersection with LA 477. Motorists will then turn left onto LA 477 and continue north for approximately 7.2 miles to reconnect with US 84.
Westbound US 84 Traffic
Motorists traveling westbound on US 84 will detour by turning south onto LA 477. Traffic will continue south on LA 477 for approximately 7.2 miles to the intersection with US 71. Motorists will then turn right onto US 71 northbound and continue for approximately 6.1 miles to the intersection of US 71/US 84/LA 6, where motorists may resume travel on US 84.
Motorists are encouraged to follow posted detour signs, use caution along the detour route, and allow additional travel time. DOTD appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as crews work to restore this route.
Safety Reminder
DOTD reminds motorists to drive with caution near the construction area and remain alert for work crews and equipment.
Additional Information
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org.
Additionally, motorists may follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter (@AlexTraffic), monitor the DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, and follow the DOTD Facebook page for updates.
Project Contact
Mr. Evan Saucier, P.E.
District Bridge Engineer
Office: (318) 561-5117
Email: [email protected]
Media Contact
Ms. Erin Buchanan
Public Information Officer
District 08: Avoyelles, Grant, Natchitoches, Rapides, Sabine, Vernon, and Winn Parishes
Phone: (318) 549-8402
Email: [email protected]
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