Update: Mississippi River Bridge project on target for early 2021 completion

The $27.5 million rehabilitation of the Interstate 20 Mississippi River Bridge is on target for completion in early 2021, weather permitting, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced Wednesday.

The nearly 50-year-old structure provides one of the few interstate crossings over the river, connecting Madison Parish, Louisiana, to Vicksburg and Warren County.

Since the project began in January 2020, the contractor has completed the rehab work on the bridge deck in both westbound lanes and one eastbound lane. Paving continues in the other eastbound lane.

Repairs are also complete to the transverse beam of the structure, which serves to help transmit the loads crossing the bridge. Additionally, two bearings on one of the piers have been replaced.

The new inspection walkway on the downstream side of the bride is nearly complete, as well as the ladders that provide access to the aerial beacons.

The contractor continues to work on improvements to the electrical power distribution system, lighting and instrumentation. Nearly 100 roadway lighting fixtures are being replaced with a modern LED system.

Roadway fiber optics are also being replaced with new cameras and radar that will be integrated into Mississippi’s IT Network.

Soon, work will begin on the access stairs for the new inspection walkway, in addition to repairs to the major expansion joints of the bridge. The steel structural connections at certain locations on the bridge are being modified to improve resilience against a variety of loads and conditions.

DOTD reminds motorists that lane closures remain in place on the bridge as work continues. Drivers are urged to travel with caution through the construction zone.

In Louisiana, call 511 or visit www.511la.org for additional information. Out-of-state travelers may call I-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).

Paving work continues on the eastbound lane of I-20 over the Mississippi River. (photo source: LDOTD)