Current Status: Bridge Fully Open
The Belle Chasse Bridge is fully operational. All four travel lanes are open to traffic, providing a modern, fixed-span crossing over the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW). With a 73-foot vertical clearance, the new bridge has eliminated the traffic delays formerly caused by the aging lift bridge and tunnel, allowing both vehicles and marine traffic to move without interruption.
What’s Happening Now: Final Punch-List & Amenities
While the main bridge structure is complete and the old tunnel has been decommissioned, crews are currently in the final “finishing” phase of the project. Ongoing activities include:
Veterans Park Improvements: Final landscaping and hardscaping are being completed at the newly renovated Veterans Park located beneath the bridge. This space is being transformed into a community amenity featuring multi-use walkways and commemorative features.
Site Restoration: Final grading and cleanup of the former construction staging areas and the old tunnel approaches are concluding to restore the surrounding landscape.
Tolling & Resident Rates
When tolling is active, the bridge utilizes a high-speed, all-electronic tolling system (AETS). While tolling is currently suspended as of October 2025, motorists should be aware of the following established rates for when operations resume:
- Plaquemines Parish Residents: Residents with a Class 1 vehicle and a valid GeauxPass qualify for a discounted local rate of $0.26 per crossing.
- Non-Residents: Rates for non-local vehicles and those without a GeauxPass are subject to standard tolling fees and potential administrative charges.
Note: Residents must provide proof of residency (driver’s license and vehicle registration) to the GeauxPass Customer Service Center to maintain their eligibility for the $0.26 rate.
Traffic Alerts
Motorists may still experience intermittent, short-term lane closures during off-peak hours as crews finalize work. Please follow all posted speed limits and watch for workers in the “finishing up” zones.