While it won't make the traffic congestion any easier to tolerate, we can't say that the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development didn't warn us this was coming.

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If you recall, earlier this month, work began on the US 80/LA 526 (Bert Kouns Industrial Loop) overpass that was damaged, and at that time, they told us the day was coming that this stretch of I-20 West in the Shreveport area would need to be closed while the work was completed.

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Well, that day has now been announced.  Effective this coming Monday, June 6, the La DOTD advises that both westbound lanes of I-20 at the US 80/LA 526 (Bert Kouns Industrial Loop) overpass in west Shreveport, Caddo Parish will be closed.

This closure is necessary to allow the contractor to begin repairs on the overpass that was damaged after it was struck by an illegal over-height load in late 2021.

How Long Will The Work Take?

This work is scheduled to take place for approximately ten days, depending on weather and other factors.

As part of the interstate closure, traffic will be routed to a diversion cross-over that has already been constructed by DOTD crews at the interchange.

DOTD has warned that motorists should anticipate some possible delays and plan an alternate route, particularly during peak travel times.

The bridge is currently load posted at 5 tons, meaning no vehicles heavier than 5 tons can legally cross until repairs are complete and the posting removed. The load posting is in the interest of the safety of the traveling public.

Warning: Here are the Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Louisiana

50+ Pictures of Shreveport's Abandoned Historic Fairgrounds Field

Before you know it, Shreveport's historic Fairgrounds Field will be will be exactly that - history. Once the legal wrangling is done, the proverbial endangered-bat-guano will hit the fan and the once glorious Ratchet-City cathedral to baseball will be demolished and gone.

Before it "bats" its final inning, let's take a final look at the glory that once was. I warn you though, it's kind of like seeing that super-hot girl from high school 20 years later - and time has not been kind.

These awesome pictures were provided by urban photographer extraordinaire Ron DeBello.

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter this property. By doing so you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing on private property.

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