Fate Of The Famous I-10 Bridge Pistols Revealed
Lake Charles, LA [KNGT-FM] - For more than 70 years, the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge has been a defining landmark in Southwest Louisiana. Since opening in 1952, its distinctive rows of crossed cast-iron pistols have made the bridge instantly recognizable and connected it to the region’s colorful maritime history.
Did you know that there are more than 5,000 pairs of crossed pistols incorporated into the bridge’s railings? The flintlock-style derringers were designed as a tribute to the area’s pirate heritage and legendary pirate Jean Lafitte.
Read More: Did You Know That the I-10 Bridge Has A Secret Entryway
Since construction on the new bridge started by the DOTD, one of the burning questions on everyone's minds in Southwest Louisiana is: What is going to happen to the pistols on the bridge, and how can I get a pair of them?
Interesting facts about the I-10 bridge in Lake Charles
- The actual name of the I-10 bridge is the Louisiana Memorial World War II Bridge, which was named in June of 1951.
- The bridge opened in 1952 to traffic
- Approximately 90,000 vehicles cross the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge daily in Lake Charles, according to recent estimates.
- Before the I-10 bridge was built, travelers passing through the area used Highway 90. To reach Lake Charles, they had to cross the Calcasieu River via a drawbridge near the Port of Lake Charles along Shell Beach Drive.
- The I-10 bridge was built under Louisiana Gov. Earl K. Long's administration.
But as the aging bridge is eventually decommissioned and demolished, many residents have wondered what will happen to its iconic decorations.
According to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development,
Following their removal, the salvaged pistols will be officially turned over to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD).
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development says any pistols salvaged when the bridge is demolished will officially become state property, but what happens after that is still undecided.
Read More: See What The New I-10 Bridge Will Look Like [VIDEO]
The new I-10 bridge currently under construction is being designed to pay tribute to the iconic crossed pistols of the existing bridge. The design will help preserve the memory of the historic structure and ensure future generations remember the distinctive pistols that have long been a symbol of Southwest Louisiana.
Even after the original structure disappears, the crossed pistols will continue to symbolize Southwest Louisiana’s history and heritage for generations of motorists crossing the Calcasieu River.
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