New construction on I-49 South to begin soon

With more than 100 miles already completed or under construction, the 160-mile I-49 South project continues to move forward with another key component ready to begin construction soon.
Price proposals are set to open by the state next week for the $50-70 million design-build project that would involve constructing an interchange at U.S. 90 and La. 318 in Jeanerette, Louisiana.
Five contractors have submitted proposals for this project, which is expected to be awarded this summer and will take an estimated two years to complete.
“In terms of economic development, hurricane evacuation, traffic congestion relief, and safety, I-49 South is Acadiana’s top regional priority,” said Jason El Koubi, president and CEO of One Acadiana. “This design-build project will accelerate our momentum, bringing us one step closer to completion of the corridor.
The completion of this design-build project would not only allow for the continued upgrade of U.S. 90 to interstate standards between Lafayette and New Orleans, but it would also bring South Louisiana one step closer to improving safety, providing another evacuation route during emergency responses, reducing congestion and significantly enhancing the interstate system on the state and national levels by serving as a continuous link from the ports of Louisiana to the Canadian border.
“We’re excited about what this project means for strengthening America’s Energy Corridor and unlocking new economic development potential for our entire state.  The completion of this interchange will put us one step closer to the ultimate goal of completing I-49 South” said Doug Place, executive vice president of Dupré Logistics and secretary/treasurer of the I-49 South Coalition.
With the aid of $7 million in Unclaimed Property Bonds, the last segment of the $670 million 36-mile I-49 North project is currently under construction and will be completed in 2016. In May 2015, the $7 million portion dedicated to the I-49 South will be bonded to support the construction of the interchange project at U.S. 90 at La. 318 and overall completion of I-49 South.
About One Acadiana
One Acadiana is the leading economic development organization for the nine-parish Acadiana region located in south Louisiana. With more than 1,200 investors, members, and partners, One Acadiana serves as the voice of the regional business community. The organization is located in the city of Lafayette and serves a region of roughly 700,000 people with a vibrant culture and unique entrepreneurial spirit.