The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has officially announced the start of a significant $663,000 pavement marking improvement project along I-10, set to begin on Monday, February 23, 2026. This project will enhance road safety and visibility for motorists traveling through key sections of this highway corridor.
I-10 Project Scope
The project will include replacing pavement striping and raised pavement markers on a 13.718-mile stretch of I-10 from I-49 to the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge in Lafayette and St. Martin Parishes.
This project spans 13.718 miles of I-10, and focuses on the critical replacement of existing pavement striping and raised pavement markers (RPMs), commonly known as “Botts’ dots” or reflective studs. These markers are crucial for delineating lanes, especially during low-visibility conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or nighttime driving, which are common in Louisiana’s variable weather patterns. The work will cover the stretch from the interchange with I-49 in Lafayette Parish eastward to the approaches of the iconic Atchafalaya Basin Bridge in St. Martin Parish. This area sees heavy daily traffic volumes, including commuters, commercial trucks, and tourists heading to and from New Orleans, Houston, and beyond, making these upgrades a priority for preventing accidents and improving overall highway performance.
I-10 Work Schedule
Contractors will primarily operate during standard daytime hours, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to minimize disruptions during peak travel times. However, due to the nature of pavement marking operations—which require dry surfaces and precise application—some nighttime or weekend work may be necessary as weather and progress dictate.
I-10 Traffic Impacts
Lane closures will be required for this project.
This project is estimated for completion in March 2026.
Motorists should anticipate intermittent lane closures in both directions along the affected I-10 segments. These closures will be implemented with advance warning signs, temporary barriers, and flaggers to guide traffic safely through the work zone. During peak construction phases, reduced speeds and single-lane travel may be enforced, potentially adding 10-20 minutes to travel times. Travelers are urged to consider alternate routes, such as US 90 or LA 182 parallel to I-10, where feasible, especially during holiday weekends or evacuation scenarios.
The project is projected to wrap up by late March 2026, weather permitting.
Safety Reminder
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.
As always, drivers are strongly encouraged to slow down, stay alert, and maintain a safe following distance when approaching work zones. Watch for construction crews, heavy equipment, uneven pavement surfaces, and sudden stops. Remember: “Work Zones are Work Zones for a Reason – Lives are on the Line.” Fines double in Louisiana work zones, so please obey all posted signs and speed limits to protect workers and fellow travelers.
What’s I-10 traffic like RIGHT NOW? I-10 Real-time traffic information for selected cities along I-10. Maps show updates on road construction, traffic accidents, travel delays and the latest traffic speeds. Traffic cameras show congestion at a glance. Visit I-10 Traffic.
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