Travelers planning to navigate through Lake Charles might need to rethink their routes next week. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has scrapped the previously scheduled full closures of I-210 WB for April 24-25 and April 25-26. But, don't let your guard down just yet because DOTD has mapped out a new set of closures designed for Hurricane Laura lighting repairs under State Project H.015598.
Drivers should be aware that shifts in traffic patterns are imminent starting Monday, April 28, with alternating, intermittent lane closures on I-210 EB between Mile Marker 1 and Exit 3. These disruptions are planned to weave through the traffic flow from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily until Monday, May 5. A release that was issued by DOTD stated the purpose behind these closures is "for crews to install ground mount light pole footings."
The westbound lanes also face roadblocks with a full closure of I-210 WB at Exit 3 set to choke off traffic flow from 9 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, until 4 a.m. the following day and repeating this pattern on Wednesday, April 30, until Thursday, May 1, the closures are essential for "crews to install concrete barrier." Apart from the full closures, a persistent left lane closure along I-210 WB from Exit 3 to Mile Marker 1 near Cove Lane is expected to stay, although the Cove Lane exit itself will continue to serve motorists during the construction period, as per DOTD.
Furthermore, during the project, there will also be a width restriction of 11 feet in place to ensure the safety of the workers on site and travelers passing by. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians commuting close to the active construction zones are urged to tread cautiously and give a wide berth to the work crews, their equipment, per the DOTD's advice shared in the recent announcement.
Commuter safety is of paramount importance during such projects and DOTD has reiterated the call for mindfulness in a statement by highlighting that they "appreciate your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment." Traffic updates and potential changes to closures or schedules can be sourced directly from DOTD's announcements as the project progresses.
