LA 544 (Tech Dr) Overpass Replacement at I-20
State Proj. No.:
H.010616
Start date:
Beginning of 2026
Cost:
$39 million
Contractor:
JB James Construction, LLC.
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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces the start of a $39.3 million project to replace the LA 544 (Tech Drive) overpass over I-20 in the City of Ruston, Lincoln Parish, which kicked off with a groundbreaking ceremony in January 2026 attended by DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet, Jr. and other state & local officials and stakeholders.
Preliminary work began with clearing & grubbing to clear the project site of vegetation to prepare for construction, as well as relocation of any utilities that are located within the work zone.
The existing LA 544 overpass, built in 1963, will be kept open to traffic in an effort to minimize the inconvenience to the traveling public while the new bridge is built on a slightly adjusted alignment. In addition to the new modernized bridge, a new MSE (mechanically stablized earth) wall will be constructed, which is used as a retaining structure to prevent erosion and help support heavy loads as vehicles cross the bridge.
Other work on the project includes three new concrete roundabouts (two north of I-20 & one south) to replace signalized intersections, concrete paving for the roadway tie-ins, street lighting, and permanent roadway striping and signage.
The double-lane roundabouts will function to significantly improve traffic flow and safety along the busy corridor, which provides one of the primary entry points for LA Tech University, as well as numerous commercial and residental areas in the rapidly growing Ruston community.
Some operations will take place adjacent to and over the interstate, such as the construction of the MSE walls, drilled shaft foundations, bridge girders, bridge deck and pier protection/guardrail. This work will necessitate alternating lane closures on I-20 to ensure the safety of both workers and the traveling public.
The entire project is anticipated to be complete in late 2029, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.
Traveler information:
Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travl 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 and signing up for email alerts, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook, X, and Instagram pages.
RELATED LINKS/PROJECT UPDATES:
LANE CLOSURES: I-20 in Lincoln Parish for LA 544 Replacement Project - Jan. 2026
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