BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – Ground will be broken Monday, July 13, on the Perkins Road Overpass project, which was originally announced in 2023.
After discussions around work starting in fall or winter of 2025, the project is now set to begin.
What the project includes
Plans call for a multi-use trail, new signs, parking, lighting, and additional improvements. The goal is to improve safety, access, and neighborhood connectivity in the area.
“I know the business community is a little frustrated; I know that. So am I,” Baton Rouge Transportation and Drainage Director Fred Raiford said.
The $2.5 million renovation project is meant to provide a safer and quicker route for people walking to businesses in the Perkins Overpass area. Construction start dates for a railroad crossing and utilities had previously delayed the project.
Impact on local businesses
Raiford said construction will affect parking in the area.
“It’s going to be an issue with the businesses because in these areas where we’re going to be, it’s going to hamper parking,” Raiford said. “In some places, you won’t be able to park because of the type of equipment they’ll have.”…