Lake Charles, Louisiana - The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced a major drainage system repair project in Lake Charles, scheduled to start on Monday, June 30, 2025. The nearly $736,000 project will address key drainage issues while also improving road surfaces at several locations throughout the city. Siema Construction will serve as the primary contractor, with project completion targeted for October 2025, pending favorable weather conditions.

Repairs are planned for the following high-traffic areas:

• Broad Street, between I-210 and Falconer Street, will see drainage repairs, road milling, and new pavement.
• The intersection of East College Street and Texas Street will undergo drainage repairs and pavement patching.
• East College Street, from Kingham Road to 5th Avenue, will also receive drainage repairs and pavement patching.

DOTD has stated that lane closures will be an ongoing aspect of the project. The public will be notified in advance of upcoming closures through official DOTD announcements and electronic message boards placed along affected routes. Motorists are encouraged to prepare for potential traffic delays and adjust travel plans as necessary to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.

Drainage repairs are vital to reduce the risk of roadway flooding during severe weather, a recurring issue in the Lake Charles area. Milling and overlay work will reinforce the durability of the pavement, providing smoother and safer travel for residents and visitors. DOTD reminds drivers to obey posted signage and exercise caution when traveling through construction zones.

The comprehensive project is part of ongoing efforts by DOTD to enhance infrastructure resilience and motorist safety throughout Louisiana, addressing both immediate drainage concerns and long-term pavement conditions.