Drivers in St. Martin Parish should brace themselves for some traffic delays coming in May, as the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) kicks off a major roadwork project on La. 347. Starting May 12, the $10.06 million preservation effort is set to update and improve a 2.98-mile stretch between La. 351 and La. 328, according to the DOTD.
Milling, asphalt concrete overlay, drainage improvements, and various related tasks outline the agenda for this construction, happening against a backdrop of necessary progression and the rhythm of Monday through Friday work schedules; rain or shine, expect crews to be onsite from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, as of April 23, drivers may start experiencing disruptions due to intermittent lane closures, a precursor to the impending construction that will facilitate utility relocations.
With the commencement of this project, traveling disruptions are expected to continue, as construction necessitates intermittent lane closures for riverine roadwork. DOTD is asking drivers to consider alternative routes or plan for additional travel time when passing through the area, where the standard flow of traffic will undergo constriction with a 11-foot lane restriction in place for oversized loads in the construction zone.
For those who traverse these roads with the wail of sirens, rest assured that emergency vehicles will maintain their passage through the construction area, DOTD guarantees seamless access throughout the duration of the project, which is projected for completion by August 2026 and for those contemplating the journey through the throes of development, DOTD's safety reminders emphasize the importance of vigilance and patience.
