For Phase I and Phase II, construction will be performed from the river banks or from underneath the bridge, limiting the amount of construction that can be viewed from the bridge structure. As construction progresses over the next year, more work will become visible to vehicle traffic. Construction activity will always be visible from River Road and both the east and west bank levees.
The Huey P. Long Bridge is a steel truss bridge. A truss bridge is a bridge with a rigid frame composed of short, straight pieces joined to form a series of triangles or other stable shapes.
The Huey P. Long Bridge has provided safe, reliable access across the Mississippi River since 1935. It is a safe bridge now, it will be safe during the construction project and it will be even safer after the widening is finished.
In mid 2008, construction will begin that could impact traffic in the area. Phase III (main bridge widening) and Phase IV (new approaches construction) will require lanes closures and traffic shifts. The majority of these lane closures will be scheduled during non-peak travel times and ample notice will always be provided.
You can get information about lane closures through local media, message signs near the project and on the project website. You can also call or visit the public outreach office.
The Huey P. Long contractors have emergency plans prepared in the event of hurricanes and other situations. Should a hurricane threaten the area, all necessary actions will be taken to ensure access across the bridge is available to the public.
The public can visit the office at their convenience to view project renderings, historical bridge photos and maintenance of traffic graphics. The public can also ask project staff questions.
The Huey P. Long Business Advisory Team (HPL BAT) gives business owners the opportunity to stay updated on the Huey P. Long Bridge Widening Project. Business owners will have the opportunity to meet project personnel and ask specific questions regarding the project.
The Huey P. Long Community Advisory Team (HPL CAT) is an opportunity for residents to meet project personnel and ask specific questions about the Huey P. Long Bridge Widening Project. The HPL CAT is an excellent way to receive the most up-to-date information on the project's progress.
The Huey P. Long Business Advisory Team (HPL BAT) is geared toward business owners, while the Huey P. Long Community Advisory Team (HPL CAT) is designed for residents. Both meetings, however, are open to all interested in the project.
To sign up for a free HPL BAT or HPL CAT membership, contact the Huey P. Long Bridge public outreach office at (5040 731-4200 or by e-mail at hueypbridgeinfo@latimedmgrs.com.
