Federal Funding For Rita Road Repairs

Baton Rouge – Today, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) Secretary Sherri H. LeBas announced that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has designated portions of La. 317 in St. Mary Parish and La. 339 in Lafayette and Vermilion parishes as eligible to receive Federal Emergency Relief Funding to repair damages related to Hurricane Rita. The projects include resurfacing a 15.1-mile section of La. 317 from U.S. 90 near Centerville to Burns Point Recreation Area, and resurfacing a 13.8-mile section of La. 339 from Pinhook Road in Lafayette to La. 14 in Erath. These roads were damaged by trucks hauling debris during hurricane recovery efforts. Secretary LeBas said, “DOTD worked diligently with the FHWA in securing the funding necessary to make these projects possible. This funding is vital to allow us to continue to rebuild the infrastructure in the communities affected by the storm. Resurfacing these two roads will help to provide a safer and smoother ride for the drivers that use them reach day.” State Representative Simone B. Champagne said, “I would like to thank Secretary LeBas for working with federal and local officials on obtaining this funding. I am happy that these projects will be done and look forward to the positive effect they will have on the community.” State Representative Sam Jones echoed Champagne’s sentiment by saying, “This is a great example of all levels of government working together for the good of the community. These projects are another sign of the continued recovery of southwest Louisiana.” The projects are being designed in-house by DOTD personnel. DOTD expects to accept bids for the projects in spring 2011. The estimated cost for the projects is approximately $10 million. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is committed to delivering transportation and public works systems that enhance the quality of life. In addition to more than 16,600 miles of roadway, including over 890 miles of interstate, DOTD supports the development of the state’s aviation, marine and rail infrastructures. Through this work, we are able to facilitate economic development, create job opportunities, improve vital evacuation routes, and make critical freight corridors safer and more efficient.

For more information, please visit www.dotd.la.gov, email dotdcs@la.gov, or call DOTD’s Customer Service Center at (225) 379-1232 or 1-877-4LADOTD (1-877-452-3683). Business hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Motorists can access up-to-date travel information by dialing 511 or by visiting www.511la.org. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).