Crews Work Around the Clock to Clear Roads After Winter Storm
Though many interstates and bridges remain closed or restricted, alternative routes are available.
BATON ROUGE, La. – Crews are racing against time to reopen roadways across East Baton Rouge Parish after an unusual winter storm dumped snow and ice, leaving roads treacherous for drivers.
Fred Raiford, Director of Transportation and Drainage for East Baton Rouge Parish, emphasized the challenges posed by the icy conditions. "While the snow looked beautiful, it’s time for it to go," Raiford said. "You can’t assume everything is just slush. Black ice is a real danger, and it’s catching drivers off guard in some areas."
Problem spots include the Perkins Road Overpass, Siegen Lane Overpass, Essen Lane, and sections of Perkins Road between College Drive and Bluebonnet. These locations remain a priority as crews focus on ensuring safe passage for first responders before addressing other major roadways.
"We’re using a lot of salt to break up thick layers of ice and working to clear these critical areas first," Raiford explained.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is also fully mobilized. Spokesperson Rodney Mallett said crews have been working in 12-hour shifts, aided by additional resources and personnel from Arkansas.
"The help from Arkansas has been a game-changer," Mallett noted. "We’re clearing snow from overpasses so our salt trucks can keep working effectively."
Though many interstates and bridges remain closed or restricted, alternative routes are available. "You can travel through Louisiana in all directions, but it’s going to be slow and likely off the interstate," Mallett said.
