I-10 bridge in Lake Charles gets OK to move forward
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This rendering from DOTD shows one of the options for what the new bridge could look like over the Calcasieu River. Image: DOTD
Construction is expected to begin this year on a new Interstate 10 bridge in Lake Charles, DOTD announced Thursday.
Why it matters: The current bridge, which is more than 70 years old, is considered one of the country's most dangerous bridges.
What's happening: Final design work will begin immediately on the $2.3 billion project that has been in the works for years, said DOTD spokesman John Guidroz.
- Construction will begin "in earnest" in 2026, he tells Axios. The bridge is expected to open in 2031.
What's new: It will be a toll bridge. Cars without a toll tag will pay $3.75 each way to cross, DOTD says.
- It won't be as steep as the current bridge over the Calcasieu River that serves as a major connector between Louisiana and Texas.
- The new bridge also will have more lanes, lights and wider shoulders.
By the numbers: State and federal funding covers $1.2 billion of the project, DOTD says. The rest will come from toll revenue.
- Discounted tolls will be available to residents in Southwest Louisiana and those with toll tags. See the proposed prices.
What's next: The current bridge will remain in use until the new one is finished, Guidroz said.
- Then, it will be demolished.