Leeville overpass machines returning

Automated toll collection machines will soon return to the entrance of the Leeville overpass.

The machine was knocked out of commission by an oversized load carried by an 18-wheeler in late spring. The new machine is expected to be online and operable in early November, according to Henri Boulet, executive director of the LA1 Coalition. A second collection machine will be installed by late January.

Since the destruction of the original toll machine, state workers have been manually collecting tolls at the overpass entrance on a 24-hour basis.

To prevent future damage, the Department of Transportation and Development is constructing a barrier to protect the machines. Also, additional signage will be placed at designated spots along the highway to notify truckers carrying oversized loads.

According to Boulet, state transportation officials intend to allow loads not exceeding 10 feet wide to pass through the designated cash lane. Loads between 10 and 13 feet wide will pass through the designated “Geaux Pass” lane on the left side, and loads more than 13 feet wide will be coordinated with Louisiana State Police and will likely pass through the northbound lane.

Boulet also noted that the design contract for the eight-mile elevated highway segment from Leeville north to Golden Meadow will be signed soon. The design for the final segment is expected to take up to 18 months.

“The final segment is expected to carry a price tag of some $320 million,” he said. “While no funds have been committed to this portion of the highway as of yet, should funds be committed while the design phase is still ongoing, the state could begin construction with a design build contract. It would just depend on the timing.”