Good news for Richland Parish: the LA 132 bridge over Boeuf River is now open. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has finished the bridge replacement, which was originally planned for early 2025. The new concrete bridge replaces the old one built in 1966.
It's been a long road for the LA 132 bridge project, which began earnestly on April 12, 2023. Weather and unforeseen circumstances often threatened to delay construction, but the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development managed to largely stay on schedule. During the detours, which at times required drivers to navigate through LA 15, LA 135, and LA 132, local traffic patterns were disrupted, upending the rhythm of daily life. "We'd like to thank the community for their patience while this project was underway," the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development said, acknowledging the impact on the region.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has been providing updates throughout the construction timeline. On March 6, it was advised that the bridge remained closed, signaling that more work was needed despite nearing the project's completion phase. Back on May 31, 2023, there was also a detour modification for approximately 21 days to tie in a new alignment, a move that rerouted traffic via LA 133, I-20, US 425, and LA 132. These disruptions underscore the project's scale and complexity, aiming to ensure a safer and more durable crossing over the Boeuf River.
Valued at $6.4 million, the bridge replacement project was a significant investment for the state. It included not only the new bridge but also pavement patching, asphalt overlay, and related work—all crucial for maintaining the infrastructure's integrity. While construction was underway, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development reminded drivers "to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment." With the bridge now open, the community's safety and mobility have been greatly enhanced.
