JEFFERSON, La. (AP) — The Huey P. Long Bridge will close at midnight Friday and is not expected to reopen until midnight on Sunday.

State transportation officials said the shutdown is necessary for removal of old lanes on the bridge, which is being reconstructed.

Drivers can use the Crescent City Connection or the Interstate 310 Bridge at Lulling as alternate crossings of the Mississippi River.

Widening of the bridge is expected to be completed in 2013.

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