Louisiana Bridge With Large Cracks in Foundation is Concerning for Many

Several photos on social media have surfaced in recent days that show cracks in the pillars of a Louisiana bridge and now the Department of Transportation and Development is responding.

Hailey Delatorre recently snapped photos from beneath the Elysian Fields overpass in New Orleans and the photos show huge cracks in the structure. Hailey tagged WDSU News and they looked into this and it got the attention of DOTD.

Since her viral post on social media, others have visited the overpass and many have documented in other photos the compromise in the structure. And yes, if you travel this overpass on a daily basis it is concerning.

Here's what DOTD had to say about the condition of the bridge in question.

"The Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is aware of information currently circulating on social media regarding the safety of an overpass at LA 3021 (Elysian Fields Avenue) and Florida Avenue in New Orleans.

Concrete cracking and spalling on substructure elements of this bridge are due to wear and tear and is common on older bridge structures of this type. This damage was also noted in our latest DOTD routine bridge inspection, which occured in January of this year.

As a result of the latest inspection, there currently are no limitations, meaning it can support its full rated weight load.

The Department will continue to monitor this development and implement any necessary countermeasures, as appropriate.

Anyone with any concerns about bridge or road structures should check with DOTD by calling 877-452-3683 or emailing dotdcs@la.gov."

Here's another photo of the overpass in New Orleans that was shared on social media by Hailey Delatorre. You can see why many are concerned.