Rodney Mallet from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) joins the show to discuss various ongoing and upcoming projects in the Baton Rouge and New Orleans areas for 2025. The conversation began with updates on preparations for the Super Bowl, highlighting several minor projects in New Orleans. These include resurfacing parts of Poydras Street, fencing, cosmetic work, sidewalk repairs, and water line maintenance. Around the Superdome, the DOTD is focusing on striping, resurfacing, concrete work, and lighting upgrades along I-10 and 6:10. These improvements aim to enhance the experience for visitors, particularly with the new on and off ramps at the airport and the diverging diamond interchange, which will improve traffic flow and safety.
Mallet also addressed safety precautions related to interstate off-ramp closures and rerouting traffic to the Central Business District (CBD) or the French Quarter, emphasizing that such decisions are typically made by local law enforcement, with DOTD providing support as needed.
The discussion then shifted to the College Drive flyover project in Baton Rouge, which began in 2021 but faced delays due to COVID-19, supply chain issues, and hurricanes. Despite these challenges, the project is expected to be completed by spring 2025. Mallet highlighted the project’s potential to significantly reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in the area.
Additionally, Mallet mentioned a rehabilitation project for Florida Boulevard, set to begin in 2025, which will include resurfacing and sidewalk improvements, particularly in the Foster area. This project aims to address the rough patches and enhance the overall condition of the roadway.
Overall, the DOTD is making significant progress on various infrastructure projects, with a focus on improving traffic flow, safety, and the overall experience for residents and visitors in both Baton Rouge and New Orleans.