Traffic Updates

Toll Rates Information

Timelapse Video

October 26, 2022 – August 28, 2023

The Belle Chasse Bridge and Belle Chasse Tunnel are crucial entry points for the people and businesses in Plaquemines Parish.

Both the bridge, which has been operational since 1968, and the tunnel, built in 1956, are near the end of their expected lifespan. They frequently need repairs, causing disruptions that impact travel for the public.

To address this, a replacement project was approved in 2017 using a Public-Private Partnership (P3), the first of its kind for LADOTD. This approach secured various public funding sources to execute the project and set an example for similar state projects.

To fix the problems caused by old infrastructure, this project will replace the current bridge and tunnel with a new 4-lane bridge. This change will allow safer and more reliable travel throughout Plaquemines Parish.

 

$45M

USDOT Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant

$34.4M

Federal/state funds allocated to DOTD

$12M

Regional Planning Commission

$12.5M

GARVEE Bonds

The project will replace the existing bridge and tunnel with a fixed-span, 4-lane bridge. Replacement of these structures will allow for safer and more reliable access for the residents, businesses, and industries in Plaquemines Parish. Improving the connectivity via this corridor will address the current conditions and operational constraints created by aging infrastructure.

Construction Timeframes

SUMMER 2020 SUMMER 2020
2020-2024 2020-2024
LATE 2023 LATE 2023
FALL 2024 FALL 2024
LATE 2024 LATE 2024

SUMMER 2020

Design input on bridge and park

2020-2024

Lane closures, construction

LATE 2023

Tunnel Permanently Closed

FALL 2024

Open new bridge

LATE 2024

Veterans Park construction starts

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Groundbreaking Video

Timeline of Events

Date Event
DECEMBER 2017 LA Joint Transportation Committee approved the use of a P3
FEBRUARY 2018 LADOTD issued a Notice of Intent
JUNE 2018 LADOTD shortlisted 3 teams to submit proposals
MARCH 2019 LADOTD received the proposal from Plenary Infrastructure Belle Chasse
DECEMBER 2019 LA Joint Transportation Committee authorized the execution of the P3 contract
2020 – 2024 Design/Construction
2024 Bridge Operational

For more information about this project, please contact us.