Lafayette Bridges Over Vermilion River to Close for Repairs

Lafayette, LA (KPEL News) - It's happened to everyone at some point. You are driving your routine route through Lafayette and, BAM, you come upon a "road closed" sign. Roads throughout Louisiana are under construction or closed at some point for various reasons, but the ones that close within your particular travel bubble feel more frustrating.

The frustration increases when the closure involves a bridge, especially ones in Lafayette that provide a path over the Vermilion River. Detour routes around them can take you much farther out of your way and add time to your trip.

Fortunately, Louisiana DOTD has done a good job of scheduling repair and maintenance projects so that the inconvenience is minimal. As we all know well, lack of proper maintenance and adequate repairs (I'm looking at you, Lake Charles bridge) create even bigger problems.

DOTD has scheduled three bridge maintenance and repair projects on Sunday, May 19, and Monday, May 20. They won't last long, but will likely affect your travel within the city of Lafayette.

All projects depend on favorable weather conditions.

Pinhook Road bridge between La Rue France & Marjorie Blvd.

The Pinhook bridge will be closed from 6 am until 8 am on Sunday, May 19 for routine maintenance repairs.

The detour will consist of Pinhook Road, Kaliste Saloom Road, Evangeline Thruway and University Avenue.

Ambassador Caffery Bridge over the Vermilion River

The bridge that crosses the Vermilion River on Ambassador Caffery, also known as LA 3073, will close Sunday, May 19 from 8 am until 10 am for routine maintenance and repairs.

People who live in the area know that the alternate routes are Camelia Boulevard or E. Broussard if you need to cross the river.

Eloi Broussard Bridge over the Vermilion River on E. Broussard Rd. (LA 733) 

The E. Broussard bridge will be closed on Monday, May 20, from 8:30 am until 10:30 am. The closure will be incredibly inconvenient as you try to get to work and navigate early morning meetings or appointments.

The detour route will not be posted, but drivers can use Milton Avenue (LA 92), Verot School Road, Ambassador Caffery, or Johnston Street to get around and over the river.