Today, Gov. John Bel Edwards joined Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D., as well as state and local officials to celebrate the completion of the Interstate 10 widening between Interstate 49 and La. 328.  

Gov. Edwards said, “Since I have been in office, over $550 million has been invested in transportation projects throughout Lafayette and St. Martin Parish. Projects such as the I-10 widening not only serve as a great benefit to motorists, but also as an invaluable asset to the many businesses along this continually growing corridor. The project involved pavement replacement within the existing lanes for 7.11 miles along I-10 from Interstate 49 to La. 328. An additional lane was also added in each direction.”

“It’s critical that we continue to make investments that will greatly contribute to our infrastructure’s resiliency, the safety of motorists and our growing economy,” said Wilson. “Investing in our state’s infrastructure not only produces quality roads, but it also enhances the quality of life for the people of Louisiana and economic development along the I-10 corridor.”

Recognizing the importance of I-10 as critical corridor and hurricane evacuation route in Louisiana and investing in projects to improve I-10 has been a priority for Governor Edwards. Since he took office in 2016, approximately $945 million has been dedicated to projects on I-10 throughout Louisiana.

“This investment in infrastructure is vital in order to improve safety and significantly reduce traffic congestion along this corridor,” said Senator Gerald Boudreau. “Thank you to Governor Edwards and Secretary Wilson for recognizing this importance and preparing for future economic growth throughout the region.”

“Congestion and safety impacts the quality of life for our citizens and the quality of the business environment for our industries,” said Representative Vincent Pierre.  “This long awaited expansion will greatly enhance the travel between Lafayette and Baton Rouge. I applaud DOTD and the entire team who have worked to bring this project to fruition.”

“Interstate 10 is a critical economic corridor as well as a main vehicular artery for hundreds of thousands of motorists,” said Representative Mike Huval. “Once completed, this will provide a more efficient commute, save lives and enhance this economic corridor.”

With the help of the FASTLANE grant, awarded in 2016 by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the state of Louisiana to partially fund this I-10 widening project, the improvements to I-10 in Acadiana will enhance economic development opportunities, provide safer, more efficient travel for motorists, and create a better evacuation route in the event of a hurricane or other natural disaster.

The project was awarded to James Construction Group, LLC of Baton Rouge for $124.7 million. Construction began in May 2017 and completed in October 2021.