LA 537 in Bossier Closing for Bridge Replacements

Three aging bridges on LA 537 near Plain Dealing will be replaced in a year-long $5.9 million project.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is set to replace three old bridges on LA 537 near Plain Dealing, starting February 25, 2026. This $5.9 million project will require a total road closure on LA 537 from Arkansas Line Road to LA 3, with the entire project expected to wrap up in early 2027.

Why it matters

The bridge replacements are aimed at increasing public safety, as the existing structures are at least 50 years old. The closure and construction will impact local drivers, who will need to find alternate routes during the year-long project.

The details

In the first stage of construction, the contractor will remove the existing structures over Stillhouse Bayou, Posten Bayou, and a smaller unnamed waterway, and replace them with new, modernized concrete bridges. The project also includes clearing and grubbing, guardrail installation, new asphalt paving, signage and fresh roadway striping.

  • The project will begin on February 25, 2026.
  • The entire project is expected to wrap up in early 2027.

The players

Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD)

The state agency responsible for the bridge replacement project on LA 537.

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What’s next

During construction, DOTD suggests taking alternate routes including LA 3 and LA 2. Detour signage will be posted.

The takeaway

This bridge replacement project on LA 537 is necessary to improve public safety, but will require significant detours and road closures for local drivers over the course of the year-long construction period.