Lake Charles, Louisiana - Lake Charles drivers can expect months of daytime traffic delays on LA 397, as state transportation officials have scheduled long-term roadwork that will partially close the right lane in both directions.
According to project information, alternating lane closures will take place on LA 397 Northbound and LA 397 Southbound in Lake Charles beginning Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, at 7 a.m. The work is scheduled to continue through Thursday, April 30, 2026, until 5:30 p.m., weather permitting.
The closure will affect a short stretch of highway around East Opelousas Street, from approximately 0.10 miles north of E Opelousas Street to approximately 0.10 miles south of E Opelousas Street. This puts the work zone around the E Opelousas Street area, a connector used by local residents and commuters.
Alternating Lane Closures In Right Lane
Officials describe the closure as a partial closure of the right lane with alternating lane closures. In practical terms, this means:
- Only the right lane will be affected in the work zone
- At different times, the right lane in either the northbound or southbound direction may be closed
- Traffic will continue to move, but with reduced capacity and likely slower speeds
Because the closure is alternating, drivers should be prepared for changing lane patterns over the course of the project. While the roadway will not be fully closed, the shifting nature of the work could cause periodic congestion, especially during heavier travel times.
Weekday Daytime Work Schedule
The roadwork is scheduled to recur Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. No closures are planned overnight or on weekends under the current schedule.
This weekday, daytime schedule means:
- Morning and late-afternoon commuters may experience delays
- Commercial traffic using LA 397 during business hours could be affected
- Off-peak and weekend drivers are less likely to face lane closures, unless the schedule changes
All work is weather permitting, so heavy rain or severe weather could delay construction, potentially shifting some of the planned timeline.
What Drivers In Lake Charles Should Expect
Motorists traveling along this part of LA 397 in Lake Charles should anticipate:
- Slower speeds through the work zone
- Possible short backups, especially at the beginning and end of the workday
- Construction crews and equipment close to the travel lanes
- Traffic control signs, cones, and possibly flaggers directing vehicles
Duration And Impact
The project is set to run for about five months, from early December 2025 through the end of April 2026.
Even without full closure, long-term partial lane restrictions can affect:
- Daily commuters traveling between neighborhoods and job sites
- Local deliveries and service vehicles
- School and commuter traffic patterns during the week
Residents and drivers in Lake Charles who regularly use LA 397 near East Opelousas Street may want to build in extra travel time on weekdays, especially during peak morning and afternoon hours.