Two NWLA cities to receive grant funding for infrastructure projects
WASHINGTON (KSLA) - Two northwest Louisiana cities are set to receive money from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This money will go toward constructing and rehabilitating highways, bridges and public transportation.
“Our transportation infrastructure has suffered from neglect and lack of funding for decades,” said Sen. Bill Cassidy in a news release Tuesday, Aug. 9. “Louisiana is seeing the benefits of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”
The senator’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law implemented a 50% increase in funding for the Rebuilding American Infrastructure Sustainably and Equitably (RAISE) Grant program.
| Grant Awarded | Recipient | Project Description |
|---|---|---|
| $22,164,000 | Shreveport | This grant will provide federal funding to construct roadway and intersection improvements on the approximately 1.6 mile healthcare corridor at the nexus of I-49 and I-20 in Shreveport. |
| $17,253,272 | Natchitoches | This grant will provide federal funding to rehabilitate the Texas Street Business Corridor from the Highway 1 South Bypass to Washington Street. |
Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. says a bike lane will also be added, connecting the western and eastern parts of the city.
“It’s gonna be, the word we’re using is transformational. It’s gonna be really impactful. People tend to want to develop their business where not only they feel safe, but they also feel that there’s concern from the city government. I think putting the right infrastructure in place on Texas Street is gonna enhance business opportunities,” he said.
Leaders say they believe the improvements will create a safer environment for the city.
“We’re going to do sidewalks. We’re going to do some street improvements, have crosswalks. We’re going to add lights to a number of streets in this community and that’s going to make it safer for those who travel in different modes. Whether they’re biking, walking or traveling in a car,” said Dr. Shawn Wilson, secretary with DOTD.
Construction in Natchitoches is expected to begin in 2025.
A total of $63,143,406 will be distributed to Louisiana cities and parishes, including Gonzales, Lafourche Parish and Plaquemines Parish.
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