Expect more upgrades for downtown Lake Charles thanks to a grant provided by Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD).

Construction is set to begin on a new multi-use path that will connect Broad Street to Clarence Street along the west side of Lakeshore Drive. Sidewalk improvements will also be made to Clarence Street, connecting Lakeshore Drive to Ryan Street, said a City of Lake Charles media release.

“This grant from DOTD will make it easier for every Lake Charles resident to enjoy our lakefront and downtown district as they leave their cars behind,” said Mayor Nic Hunter. “Walkability is a quality of life factor that influences both people’s and businesses’ choice of residence, and Lake Charles is becoming a more pedestrian-friendly and bike-friendly city one mile at a time.”

The project will provide improved pedestrian access along Lakeshore Drive by way of new accented sidewalks, crosswalks, and rest area landings. The project will provide ADA accessibility, special decorative paving at key locations for accent, and site furnishing improvements including bike racks, benches, and litter receptacles.

The project is expected to take 150 working days. The expected completion is in February 2019. Competitive grant funding is provided by the LA DOTD Enhancement Program ($665,000) and the LA DOTD Road Transfer Program ($206,550).

“By way of Clarence Street, the new Lakeshore Drive multiuse trail will connect downtown and its beautiful new streetscape with the lakefront,” said Lori Marinovich, Assistant Planning Director for the City of Lake Charles. “

Contact Lori Marinovich at 491.1429 for more information.

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