LAFAYETTE, LA – The I-10 and I-49 exit ramps in Lafayette have officially reopened following a December 2024 incident in which a semi-truck struck an overpass, causing significant damage to the structure and its girders. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) confirmed the completion of repairs earlier this month, bringing relief to commuters who had been navigating alternate routes for several months.
The crash, which occurred late in 2024, resulted in extensive damage to the overpass, prompting the closure of the ramps and creating traffic disruptions for local residents and travelers. Crews worked around the clock to assess the structural integrity of the damaged overpass and carry out the necessary repairs. Despite the challenges presented by the damage, the DOTD managed to reopen the ramps in February 2025, well ahead of the initial projected timeline.
This incident is the latest in a series of concerns about oversized loads causing damage to vital infrastructure in Louisiana. The December crash, in particular, highlighted the vulnerability of overpasses and the need for ongoing investment in infrastructure safety measures. The state has pledged to continue evaluating and improving its highway systems to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Commuters in the area have expressed gratitude for the swift repairs and are now able to resume their normal travel routines. Local businesses that rely on consistent traffic flow have also welcomed the reopening of the ramps, which is expected to provide a boost to the local economy.
For more information on ongoing roadwork and traffic updates in the Lafayette area, residents can visit the DOTD’s official website or tune into local news stations for real-time alerts.