The Louisiana Joint Transportation, Highway and Public Works Committee (USA) has given its approval for a public-private partnership (PPP) to build and finance the new Calcasieu River Bridge on Interstate 10 in Lake Charles. 

This project will extend from the I-10/I-210 west interchange to the Ryan Street exit ramp on the east side of the bridge. The Calcasieu River Bridge and the interstate within the project limits will be reconstructed to ensure that the vertical clearance, horizontal alignment, sight distances and other road and bridge elements meet current design criteria. Additionally, the segment of LA 378 (Sampson Street) from I-10 to Sulphur Avenue will be improved, as well several access ramps and the interchanges at Sampson Street and US 171 to be reconfigured. The total cost of constructing a new bridge is estimated to be between US$600- US$800 million, dependent on the preferred alternative chosen, of which DOTD has committed US$85 million to the P3.

Currently, this project is nearing the end of the environmental phase. Three alternative locations have been identified and will be evaluated in the Environmental Impact Statement. A fourth public meeting will be scheduled in spring 2021 to present preliminary findings that will determine which of these alternatives is preferred. A decision is anticipated by 2022, with a contract scheduled to be awarded in early 2023.