The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), advises motorists that on Thursday, Oct. 30 construction will begin on an emergency pipe repair project on I-49 northbound in Natchitoches Parish.

This work will take place approximately 3 miles north of exit 119 near Montrose.

The intent of this project is to rehabilitate three 120” corrugated metal pipes at Bayou Lacarp which is located under I-49. This includes repairing damaged areas and applying a geopolymer lining along the inside of the pipes.

Geopolymer lining is a highly durable material that – once applied to the inside of the pipe – hardens and bonds with the existing structure to create a protective seal and reinforce the pipe’s integrity.

The project was awarded to Vortex Services, in the amount of $2,092,777.

In order to allow construction to progress safely and efficiently, the northbound outside lane of I-49 will be closed.

The work associated with this project should wrap up in early 2026, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.