ST. MARTIN PARISH, LA — As Phase 3 of the $4 million bridge replacement project on Herbert Lane continues, residents are expressing a blend of frustration and understanding. The construction, which began in November, has created some temporary inconveniences for locals, but many see it as a necessary step toward improving the region’s transportation infrastructure.
Hannah Devall, a resident of Herbert Lane, acknowledged the challenges the ongoing work presents but expressed optimism for the long-term benefits. “Though it’s an inconvenience, we understand that’s how we make our roadways better,” Devall said. “We look forward to when this last bridge here looks as nice as the bridge close to Breaux Bridge.”
The current phase of the project, which focuses on replacing a traditional main bridge on Herbert Lane, is the most involved of the three phases. The previous phases, which included work along Ruth Bridge Highway and Poydras Highway, primarily dealt with installing box culverts. The work on Herbert Lane, however, involves the more complex task of replacing an old timber structure with a modern bridge.
Deidra Druilhet, Public Information Officer for the Louisiana Department of Transportation, explained that crews are currently laying side drain pipes and beginning to pour approach slabs. Despite some of the inconvenience caused by the ongoing work, Druilhet noted that progress has been significant.
For some residents, the noise from the construction has been a particular challenge. Ann Crim, another local resident, shared her frustration with the loud pounding noises from the site. “I don’t know what they were pounding into the ground, but I literally said, ‘I think they’re pounding to Africa.’ It was really loud,” Crim recalled. “It hasn’t affected my commute at all, though, thanks to the other bridges from previous phases of the project.”
While the noise has been an issue for some, others have found solace in the fact that their daily commutes haven’t been significantly impacted. With bridges from earlier phases already in place, many residents have been able to navigate the area with relative ease, even as construction continues on the Herbert Lane bridge.
Despite the temporary disruptions, many residents remain optimistic about the project’s completion. Devall, for instance, is hopeful that once finished, the new bridge will significantly improve travel for both local residents and visitors. “The smooth, nice bridges, and the bridges that are wide enough to pass trailers up and down, will definitely outweigh the small inconvenience it is to go around town,” she said.
The Herbert Lane bridge replacement project is expected to be completed in April 2025. As crews continue their work, residents of St. Martin Parish are navigating the temporary disruptions with the hope that the long-term benefits will make the inconveniences worthwhile.