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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced a contract to widen I-10 has been signed, and the notice to proceed has been issued, Aug. 16.

The $72 million project, which has been contracted to James Construction Group LLC, will widen the road from four lanes to six east of Highland Road to the LA 73 interchange and will replace the LA 42 overpass structures. Construction is set to start sometime in early 2018 and is expected to take about two and a half years to complete, DOTD, said.

"We are excited to start this much-needed capacity project," said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson. "I-10 is not only an important route for freight, but it's also a major artery for commuters who use it daily to travel between East Baton Rouge and Ascension Parishes. This is yet another project that highlights the necessity of having a well-funded transportation system and shows this administration's dedication to using innovative means, such as design-build, to fund and construct meaningful projects. However, additional reliable, long-term funding will be needed to complete the expansion of the I-10 corridor or the construction of a new bridge."

Funding

The project will be paid for with both federal and state funds, including $40 million in "congressionally authorized repurposed earmarks," DOTD said. Spending has been capped at $72 million due to plans for future improvements on Highland Road, although there are no funds currently available for additional projects.

The Building Process

This project will be completed using a design-build process, with James Construction Group bidding and working on the project together with the designer. The process allows the project to be completed more quickly and helps it adhere to set funding and delivery schedules, DOTD said.

"We're eager to be a part of this important project that will help advance the I-10 corridor between East Baton Rouge and Ascension parishes," said Michael Killgore, president of James Construction Group. "We look forward to helping ease the congestion and making it safer to travel this section on Louisiana's busiest interstate."

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