Improving Safety and Mobility on I-10 Calcasieu Bridge

The I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge had become structurally deficient, functionally obsolete and chronically over-capacity. Built in 1952 and long before the interstate system, the aging bridge lacked critical structure elements to create safe driving conditions. With the 90,000/day traffic – more than twice the design capacity – the narrow lanes and inadequate shoulders became a daily bottleneck that slowed commuters, freight movement and emergency response. The issue did not just pose a major risk during hurricane evacuations, it also made it difficult for Lake Charles and Westlake communities to reach jobs and schools, as well as limiting supply-chain routes. The replacement of I-10 Calcasieu Bridge is necessary for safer travel on one of Louisiana’s most important transportation corridors and to support the surrounding communities.

Nossaman is advising the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) on the $2.1 billion project, which includes design, construction, financing, operations and maintenance of a new 6-lane bridge on I-10 crossing the Calcasieu River, development of a new toll system, modification and relocation of existing roadways and demolition and removal of the existing bridge. Currently, Nossaman is assisting with its implementation.

The project won the Transport Deal of the Year – Bridges, North America category during this year’s IJGlobal Americas Awards. The LaDOTD also was recognized during the annual American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) awards for Innovation and Community Impact and received a P3 Bulletin award in the “Best Road, Bridge or Tunnel Project” category for the project.

The I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge Replacement Project will improve safety, mobility and economic reliability across Southwest Louisiana.