State and local officials recently celebrated the completion of the Louisiana Highway 487 bridge replacement over Brushy Bayou, marking another infrastructure improvement for residents and motorists in Natchitoches Parish. The new bridge, located south of the Ajax community, was completed ahead of schedule, restoring an important transportation connection for residents, businesses, and travelers who rely on Highway 487.

According to the Office of Louisiana Highway Construction (OLHC), the project was finished several months ahead of its originally anticipated October completion date.

Natchitoches Parish Council Member Wayne Halm reported that the bridge replacement was completed in just 99 days.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to commemorate the project’s completion, bringing together local leaders and project partners. Halm attended the ceremony and expressed appreciation for the progress while emphasizing the need for continued infrastructure improvements throughout Natchitoches Parish. He also used the opportunity to speak with OLHC Executive Director Archie Chaisson III about additional roadway projects needed in the parish.

In a social media statement, Halm acknowledged that substantial work remains to be done but pointed to the bridge replacement as evidence of ongoing progress.

“We have a long ways to go — but road work is being done in Natchitoches,” Halm stated.

OLHC credited support from Gov. Jeff Landry and cooperation among state and local partners for helping move the project forward.

The completed bridge represents an investment in the parish’s transportation infrastructure, providing a renewed connection along Highway 487 near the Ajax community. The project also highlights continuing efforts to address aging bridges and roadway infrastructure throughout rural Louisiana. With the replacement complete, the Highway 487 crossing over Brushy Bayou has been restored for motorists traveling through the area.

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