Drivers and residents in Richland Parish might have noticed the construction signs and equipment lining LA 17, as the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has rolled up its sleeves for a hefty rehabilitation project on the stretch of road from Franklin Parish Line to the North End of Rundell Loop. The state has contracted D & J Construction Co., LLC, with a project budget set at a precise $2,749,608.10, an investment aimed at sprucing up a well-traveled corridor.
Starting on December 8, 2024, the workers have been busy with grading, dealing with structures, milling away at the old asphalt pavement, patching up the bad spots, and laying down a fresh asphalt overlay. It stands to reason that with work like this, there are going to be some lane closures - but only intermittent ones, allowing life to go on, albeit with a minor inconvenience. In a statement obtained by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, they spell out the need for caution in the usual careful tones, advising locals to "drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment."
Area residents are encouraged to maintain a sharp eye and exercise a extra caution when going about their daily commutes, walks, or bicycle rides near the bustling site. The entire update on the rehabilitation plans and safety reminders can be found on the DOTD's announcement page, here.
