Westlake, Louisiana - All eastbound lanes of Interstate 10 over the Calcasieu River Bridge from Westlake to Lake Charles have reopened to traffic after a multi-day closure for repairs, according to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD).
The closure, which began January 24, was put in place so crews could address an issue with an expansion joint on the bridge at milepost 28.7. DOTD reported that the repair has been completed and the affected lane has been reopened, restoring full eastbound capacity on this busy stretch of I-10.
An expansion joint is a critical component that allows a bridge to expand and contract with changes in temperature and traffic loads. When there is a problem with a joint, it can affect both the smoothness of the ride and, more importantly, the long-term health of the structure. By closing the lane, DOTD provided work crews the space needed to safely inspect and fix the issue.
The I-10 Calcasieu River crossing is a key corridor for local, regional, and interstate travel, carrying passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, and freight traffic across southwest Louisiana. Even a single-lane closure on this route can lead to congestion and longer travel times, especially during peak hours and holiday periods.
DOTD’s announcement that all lanes are now open means drivers should see improved traffic flow in the area.
The reopening of I-10 eastbound over the Calcasieu River Bridge returns one of Louisiana’s primary east–west routes to full service, easing travel for commuters, commercial haulers, and through traffic moving across the state.