I-10 Bridge project baseline schedule set
Published 3:14 pm Thursday, February 26, 2026
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has approved the project baseline schedule for the Interstate10-Calcasieu River Bridge replacement project.
The project has reached several key milestones since financial close in August of 2024, setting the stage for major construction to begin in the spring of 2026, DOTD said in a news release on Thursday.
Among the phases complete is the first portion of the geotechnical investigation; the closure of Exit 27 at La. 378 in Westlake for the relocation of an overhead pipe rack; the approval of the final right-of-way maps; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Coast Guard permit approvals; and wetland mitigation and vertical clearances.
“As the project advances through the design and permitting phases, project partners remain focused on delivering a modern, resilient structure that meets the region’s long-term transportation needs,” the DOTD said in the release.
In progress now is the finalization of the interim design; utility coordination and relocation; the second portion of the geotechnical investigation; right-of-way acquisition; hauling embankment; test piling; tree clearing; and the consolidation of a common duct bank.
As part of the project, several underground utilities — previously scattered and in conflict with the new corridor alignment — are being consolidated into a single, shared duct bank, DOTD said.
“This streamlined infrastructure not only clears the way for bridge construction but also improves long-term maintenance access and reduces future disruptions,” the department said. “This is a key step in preparing the corridor for transformation, and utility relocation work is already underway.”
An Active Transportation Allowance is also in place for bicycle and pedestrian facilities on either end of the bridge contingent upon the approval of the department.
DOTD said it is hiring workers for the project, including a field engineer, scheduler, safety field manager, project engineer and carpenters.
“With major construction slated to begin in spring 2026, stakeholders can expect continued updates as the project transitions from planning to execution — bringing improved safety, connectivity, and economic opportunity to Southwest Louisiana,” the DOTD said in the release.
