$5.1 million LA 1 repairs start Monday: What Simmesport drivers need to know

SIMMESPORT — Drivers on LA 1 in Simmesport should prepare for intermittent lane closures as a $5.1 million road improvement project begins Monday, Nov. 2.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development said the project covers approximately five miles, extending from the Atchafalaya River Bridge to the intersection of Rosewood Crossing.

The project is listed as LA 1: Atchafalaya River-Rosewood Crossing, project number H.016298.6. Its letting date was June 10, 2026.

The work includes Class II base course, milling and asphalt concrete overlay, pavement patching and related work. Crews will repair the road’s base, remove old asphalt, lay new asphalt and replace roadway striping.

What drivers need to know

Lane closures will occur intermittently during construction. DOTD urges drivers to follow posted warning signs and reduced speed limits, watch for crews and equipment, and leave extra space between vehicles.

A 16-foot width restriction is already in place for the project. Vehicles wider than 16 feet must use an alternate route.

Residents should also use caution when walking or biking near the work zone.

Work expected to finish in summer 2027

DOTD anticipates completing the project in summer 2027. Weather and other construction-related factors could affect that timeline.

R.J. Daigle & Sons Contractors, Inc. was awarded the $5,091,168 contract. The project is funded through the Louisiana Transportation Infrastructure Fund with money allocated by the state Legislature.

For current road conditions and travel updates, call 511, visit 511la.org or use the Louisiana 511 mobile app.

Project questions may be directed to DOTD Project Engineer Justin Moreau at 318-346-4582.

Source: Louisiana DOTD announcement, Oct. 28, 2026. Additional contract details supplied separately. Cover illustration; not a photograph of the project site.