The much-awaited DeSaix Boulevard Bridge in New Orleans has reopened following substantial upgrades to its infrastructure, heralding a new chapter for the surrounding community's connectivity. This bridge, spanning the breadth of Bayou St. John, is also set to improve pedestrian and vehicular flow. Along with the bridge, improvements along Moss Street in the 1700 and 1800 blocks have also been completed, promising a more integrated system of transportation for the residents, according to the City of New Orleans.
A significant $6 million was invested into the bridge project, funded by the City of New Orleans bond program. Specific enhancements comprised of an entire bridge reconstruction and the addition of new lighting. The revamped bridge facilitates better links with the Wisner Trail and City Park by improving walking and bicycling pathways. Neel-Schaffer, Inc. took the reins of the design process for the project, which was instantiated into reality by RNGD Construction, LLC.
Emphasizing the importance of infrastructure investments, Rick Hathaway, Director of the Department of Public Works, considered the new DeSaix Boulevard Bridge a pivotal step in enhancing safety and mobility for the community, as reported by the City of New Orleans. "This project represents a significant investment in critical infrastructure for our residents," Rick Hathaway said. "The new DeSaix Boulevard Bridge not only improves safety and mobility, but also strengthens the connections between our neighborhoods, parks, and trails. We are committed to delivering projects that enhance the quality of life for everyone in New Orleans," he stated.
The completion of this bridge stands as a part of a larger city initiative. Since May 2018, the Department of Public Works has finished 217 projects with an estimated value of $1.12 billion. Presently, there are 34 roadwork projects in the midst of construction, amassing a near value of $553 million, as confirmed by documentation sourced from the City of New Orleans.
The Department of Public Works took the opportunity to thank local residents and businesses for their endurance and cooperation throughout the construction process. They have also encouraged citizens with questions or in need of further information to reach out to the Office of Strategic Engagement & Special Projects. Interested parties can contact them by calling 504.658.7623, or through emailing [email protected]. For receiving real-time updates on ongoing and upcoming construction projects, the public can subscribe to alerts by texting ROADWORK to 77295 or by visiting ready.nola.gov/alerts, where users can create a profile and select the "roadwork" alert list, as per the City of New Orleans.
