Pineville Roadway Project Delay Sparks Concern Over Public Input

Delayed Road Project Aims to Improve Safety in Central Louisiana

A significant road improvement project that was initially scheduled to begin on August 5 has been postponed, but it remains a critical initiative for Central Louisiana. The project involves construction on the outside travel lanes of U.S. Highway 165 and U.S. Highway 167 near Lowe’s. While the start date has been delayed, the long-term benefits of the project are expected to be substantial.

The Alexandria-based Diamond B Construction Company was awarded the contract for this work, which is valued at over $6.2 million. The project's primary objective is to lower the roadway at the Pineville Expressway overpass where U.S. Highway 165 crosses U.S. Highway 167. This adjustment is necessary because the current clearance under the bridge is only about 14 feet, and the goal is to increase it to just over 16 feet.

Erin Buchanan, representing the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD), explained that past issues with vehicles striking the bridge have led to lane closures, delays, and other disruptions. She emphasized that the project is not just about reconstructing the roadway but also about improving safety by ensuring adequate clearance for all types of vehicles.

Originally, Phase I of the project was expected to be completed by October, with full completion anticipated by January 2026. However, the delay allows for more planning and adjustments to minimize inconvenience for the public.

State Representative Mike Johnson expressed concerns about the lack of public input and communication regarding the project. He noted that the announcement came as a surprise to many officials and the community. Johnson raised specific concerns about the National Guard’s access during the school year and the impact on bus routes, parents, and local businesses.

He reached out to LaDOTD officials and appreciated their willingness to consider alternative staging methods. The department agreed to explore ways to make the construction less disruptive. Now, the focus is on finding the best timing for the project to begin while ensuring minimal disruption for drivers and residents.

Buchanan acknowledged the importance of balancing safety with the needs of the community. “The overall goal is to have a satisfactory, safe project at the end,” she said. “But in the meantime, we don’t want that to be an utterly painful process for everybody involved either.”

Despite the postponement, the project remains a priority for improving infrastructure and enhancing safety along these key highways. No new construction date has been announced yet, but the LaDOTD is working closely with stakeholders to ensure the project meets the needs of the community.

As the planning continues, the focus remains on delivering a safer and more efficient transportation system for Central Louisiana. The collaboration between officials, contractors, and the public will be essential in making this project a success.