Kisatchie Slough Bridge Construction Continues
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Due to the recent heavy rains on Thursday, October 31st the temporary crossing in place for the new permanent Kisatchie Bayou Slough Bridge, currently under construction, is closed. Over seven inches of rain fell in less than 24 hours, flooding the temporary crossing.
The Kisatchie Bayou Slough Bridge provides water flow relief during periods of high water from Kisatchie Bayou. The bridge is located approximately one mile east of the Natchitoches Parish Community of Lotus. This bridge is a major Louisiana DOTD project, and will provide safe passage for local residents, forest visitors, emergency responders and Kisatchie Ranger District Employees.
DOTD officials accessed the temporary crossing and determined that it would be more cost effective and faster to continue construction work on the new permanent Kisatchie Slough Bridge and not replace the temporary crossing. The new bridge is expected to open in 6 to 8 weeks.
During this time forest visitors coming from the LA #117 areas will be detoured around LA #118 and Forest Service road #360. Any traffic coming from the eastern end of the Kisatchie Ranger District, particularly from LA #119, will continue to have access to camps and trails, but there will be no through traffic until the new bridge is open. The bridge is under construction by James Construction of Baton Rouge.
For more information about the Kisatchie Slough Bridge construction and road information please contact the Kisatchie Ranger District at (318) 472-1840.
