The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that as the $361 million project to build a new 4-lane LA 511 (Jimmie Davis) Bridge continues to move forward, intermittent nighttime road closures on the Arthur Ray Teague Parkway in Bossier City are necessary.
Beginning on Friday, July 10, 2026, drivers can expect intermittent road closures of the ART Parkway at night only (both directions), from approximately 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. at the interchange with the Jimmie Davis Bridge.
These road closures are anticipated to take place on various nights between July 10th and August 7th, 2026 as long as weather permits. The closures are necessary to allow for the placement of girders on the east side of the new bridge structure.
These are critical operations for the project, as girders act as backbones of the bridge, safely transferring heavy traffic loads from the deck (driving surface) down to the foundation of the structure.
DETOUR INFORMATION:
Drivers wishing to go northbound on the ART Parkway will be detoured via LA 511 to US 71 (Barksdale Blvd) northbound to Walker Place and back to ART Parkway.
Drivers wishing to go southbound on ART Parkway will be detoured via Walker Place to US 71 (Barksdale Blvd) southbound to LA 612 (Sligo Rd) and back to ART Parkway.
PROJECT SIGNIFICANCE:
The historic Jimmie Davis Bridge replacement project will transform how traffic flows across the Red River, connecting Bossier and Caddo Parishes. A new, modernized 4-lane bridge is being constructed adjacent to the existing 2-lane structure, and will provide double the traffic capacity approaching the bridge on either side, as well as crossing the river. The project will serve as a foundation for continued economic development and growth in the area.
Construction on the new bridge is anticipated to wrap up in mid-late 2027, weather permitting.
Click here to visit the project webpage and find numerous helpful resources and information.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Drivers are strongly urged to use extreme caution when navigating the construction zone, pay attention to detour and other signage, eliminate distractions, and never operate a vehicle while impaired.
Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.