Lake Charles, Louisiana - The City of Lake Charles has given a progress report on the current expansion project on West Prien Lake Road.
The collaboration between the City of Lake Charles and the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury on the project is progressing as planned, with the completion date set for spring 2025.
The project entails widening West Prien Lake Road from Cove Lane south to Ihles Road, incorporating a bicycle trail on the western side and sidewalks on the eastern side. Significant upgrades to the water, sewer, and drainage systems are also part of the plan. Moreover, the reconstruction of Sale Road is included in the project. This involves the creation of a three-lane roadway spanning from Rue Chan Ann Lane to West Prien Lake Road in the western direction.
The reconstruction of Sale Road, which began after construction at the crossroads of West Prien Lake and Sale Roads was finalized earlier this year, is nearing completion. The current stage of the project is set to conclude, provided the weather conditions are favorable, on October 20, 2023.
Once the Sale Road construction is finished, the contractors will return to West Prien Lake Road to start the next stage of the project, which will primarily involve installing a concrete pavement at the junction of West Prien Lake Road and Ihles Road. If the weather conditions are favorable, this part of the project is estimated to run from October 20, 2023, to January 12, 2024. Information regarding further lane closures and detours will be made available.
The expansion of West Prien Lake Road, stretching from where it meets Sale Road to its junction with Ihles Road, is scheduled to be finished by spring 2024.
The City of Lake Charles acknowledges the public's eagerness for a swift project. When projects are tendered, they typically come with a project timeline estimated by an independent engineer. The contractor awarded this particular project is currently operating within the predicted timeline.
Once finished, this project will signify a substantial commitment to enhancing the city's road, sewer, drainage systems, and overall living quality.