Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for New Jimmie Davis Bridge

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Exciting news that's been a long time coming was announced by the Louisiana Department of Transportation on Tuesday.  Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry was in town to break ground on the new Jimmie Davis Bridge project.

Other officials included Development Secretary Joe Donahue and numerous state and local leaders for a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the official kick-off of construction of the new Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) crossing the Red River, connecting Caddo and Bossier Parishes. 
 
According to the LaDoTD, the $360 million project will provide a new four-lane bridge across the river in the communities of south Shreveport and Bossier City, doubling the current capacity as one the metro area’s five integral river crossings. 

 
“Infrastructure is a vital component to a healthy economy. Our roads, bridges, and transportation networks are what move our state’s people and commerce,” said Governor Landry. “Strategic infrastructure investments – such as this new Jimmie Davis Bridge – are essential for our businesses to thrive in an increasingly global economy, and for our residents to make safe and efficient commutes each and every day.” 

 
Preliminary work such as the clearing and grubbing process along the river bank, as well as the beginning of roadway improvements on LA 511 began in late May 2024, but Tuesday's ceremony was a celebration of a project that has been envisioned by local and state leaders for many years. 

 
“The new Jimmie Davis Bridge is more than simply a bridge,” said Secretary Joe Donahue. “This structure is truly a symbol of growth and development, and is an incredibly substantial investment in our transportation system after years of dedication by numerous stakeholders to the project’s continued development.” 

The new bridge is expected to be completed by late 2026.