SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – During the last moments of the Legislative Session, the state’s annual construction bill (HB 2) removed $140 million for the bridge connecting Shreveport and Bossier City.
Although significant funding was removed from House Bill 2, Shreveport-Bossier representatives have stated they have full confidence that the funding pulled will not impact their plans.
“About $140 million dollars was cut from the P5 Section, that’s really the bonding capacity, that’s dollars that would be used down the road and we’re concerned about it. But this morning, we are very relieved that we confirmed the project is on track and will remain on track,” said Representative Thomas Pressly.
After a wrap of the Louisiana Legislative Session last week, lawmakers from NWLA expressed disbelief that the state’s construction budget did not include the full amount initially budgeted to be approved by Governor Edwards.
“It’s a big concern when we have big dollars that are taken out of our region I was certainly frustrated with the process at the end of our legislative session last week,” said Representative Thomas Pressly.
Less than two months ago in April 2023, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) awarded $361 million towards the project.