Louisiana: Jimmie Davis Bridge Replacement

Fixing the Bayou Bottleneck

Challenge: Built in 1968, the historic Jimmie Davis Bridge in Louisiana is a two-lane bridge with a four-lane highway on either side. With 25,500 vehicles crossing daily – it is the textbook definition of a traffic bottleneck. Officials have talked about updating the old metal bridge in the northwest corner of the state for many years – but plans were drawn, and plans were scrapped.

The Solution: With help from the bipartisan infrastructure law, the state is finally moving forward with a plan to construct a new, four-lane bridge. The old bridge will be converted to a pedestrian and bike crossing. If you commute between Bossier and Shreveport – take heart – the bayou bottleneck will be broken. New bike-friendly crossing options, as well as a faster, more reliable trip home, are just ahead.

What They’re Saying: “This new bridge will serve as a major crossing over the Red River, and it will allow Louisiana to have its first linear bridge park by repurposing the historic, original bridge, which will benefit the local residents by providing more pedestrian-friendly infrastructure while keeping a piece of the region’s history.” – Former Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D. (DOTD press release, 2/28/23.)