The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LDOTD) says construction of project near West Monroe that was first issued a consultant work order in 1981 is finally set to begin.
LDOTD says construction on widening 3.2 miles of LA 616 (Arkansas Road) from two lanes to four lanes with a center turn lane is expected to begin this summer. Gilchrist Construction was awarded the $32.9 million project. It also will include replacing four “signalized” intersections with roundabouts.
The agency reports the construction was delayed for so long “due to changes in policy, scope and limited funding.”
“This project, which will improve roadway conditions and quality of life for residents who travel along this corridor, speaks to the serious need for substantial transportation investment that ensures that projects never have to be delayed to this degree,” says LDOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson. “Unfortunately, many projects are pushed back repeatedly because we just don’t have necessary funding to support Louisiana’s growing transportation needs. The Governor’s Transportation Task Force has provided meaningful policy recommendations to improve our state’s infrastructure in the future, and LDOTD is committed to administering more rehabilitation and capacity projects like these for Louisiana.”
