Statement from DOTD Secretary William D. Ankner, Ph.D.
regarding the I-10 Bridge in Lake Charles

The Interstate 10 bridge in Lake Charles is safe. Former DOTD Secretary Kam Movassaghi assures DOTD that he did not make the disparaging remarks that are attributed to him in an email about the condition of the bridge. It is irresponsible for individuals to leverage Dr. Movassaghi’s excellent reputation, causing panic among citizens.

If the bridge were not safe, I would close it immediately, as I have done dozens of times for other bridges across Louisiana. DOTD wants to replace the I-10 bridge, which is more than 50 years old, and we are looking at long-term funding options. In the meantime, we will maintain our ban of overweight trucks and continue our aggressive inspection and repair schedules to keep the bridge in safe condition.

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www.dotd.la.gov