First, since it is acknowledged that this project will not solve the long term problem with traffic in BR, and that by the time all the construction is completed it will be time to start over, why not address the problem with a permanent long term solution. A new bridge that connects with a loop within BR that could be an upgraded Airline Highway which would serve both BR traffic and I-10 through traffic. It could also be an opportunity for new development along Airline or where ever the corridor is. An increasingly larger and larger I-10 through the heart of BR is counter to the idea of smart streets that give more options not fewer larger streets. The interstate system in BR was poorly conceived from the start, why continue the poor planning when an improved look at the problem could give better results?
Response:
During the Stage 0 Feasibility Study for this project, alternative regional transportation improvements were considered including a new southern Mississippi River Bridge crossing and a Northern Bypass. Though these megaprojects will provide improved traffic flow through the Baton Rouge metro area, the I-10 Improvement through Baton Rouge is necessary to help alleviate congestion through the area.
Comment:
First, since it is acknowledged that this project will not solve the long term problem with traffic in BR, and that by the time all the construction is completed it will be time to start over, why not address the problem with a permanent long term solution. A new bridge that connects with a loop within BR that could be an upgraded Airline Highway which would serve both BR traffic and I-10 through traffic. It could also be an opportunity for new development along Airline or where ever the corridor is. An increasingly larger and larger I-10 through the heart of BR is counter to the idea of smart streets that give more options not fewer larger streets. The interstate system in BR was poorly conceived from the start, why continue the poor planning when an improved look at the problem could give better results?
Response:
During the Stage 0 Feasibility Study for this project, alternative regional transportation improvements were considered including a new southern Mississippi River Bridge crossing and a Northern Bypass. Though these megaprojects will provide improved traffic flow through the Baton Rouge metro area, the I-10 Improvement through Baton Rouge is necessary to help alleviate congestion through the area.