Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to study the expansion of a portion of Lousiana Highway 21 to four lanes
Impact
If implemented, the proposed expansion of Louisiana Highway 21 could significantly alleviate traffic congestion and enhance road safety, especially in school zones where high-speed traffic poses risks. The inclusion of turning lanes is particularly emphasized, as they are essential for allowing safer transitions for vehicles needing to turn, thus preventing delays and potential accidents. Additionally, the upgrade is positioned to provide a vital route linking local communities to the interstate, promoting economic growth and accessibility in the region.
Summary
House Resolution No. 258 (HR258) urges the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to conduct a study on traffic conditions along Louisiana Highway 21, specifically from the intersection with Highway 10 in Bogalusa to the state line. The resolution seeks recommendations for expanding this section of the highway to four lanes and incorporating a turning lane to improve safety and traffic flow. The proposal comes amidst discussions of a long-anticipated state highway connection between Bogalusa and Interstate 12, a move aimed at enhancing access to the interstate and serving as an evacuation route during emergencies.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HR258 appears to be positive, with stakeholders recognizing the necessity of improved infrastructure in facilitating regional connectivity and safety. Concerns regarding safety, especially for students at Varnado High School located along the highway, have been highlighted, indicating that community priorities are being considered in the legislative process. While support for the bill is strong among local representatives, there may be underlying apprehensions regarding the execution of the proposed plans and their effects on the environment and local traffic patterns.
Contention
Though the resolution promotes a beneficial expansion effort, there may be contentions surrounding the potential environmental impacts and the management of school traffic during construction and after completion. Balancing road expansion with the preservation of community character and safety will be crucial discussions for the Department of Transportation and Development. The request for a thorough traffic study aims to preemptively address these concerns, ensuring that any expansion incorporates necessary features to safeguard local residents and preserve the area's integrity.
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to study and take measures to relieve traffic congestion on Louisiana Highway 16 at Live Oak High School
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development study the addition of a shoulder on Louisiana Highway 19 between north Zachary and the Mississippi state line
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development conduct a study and make plans relative to emergency evacuation routes for public safety
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to reevaluate and construct a safety installation in a certain community in Shreveport, Louisiana
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to evaluate all potential areas in the upper Amite River Basin on potential to detain or retain stormwater runoff through a system of structures
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to evaluate all potential areas in the upper Amite River Basin on the potential to detain and retain stormwater runoff through a system of structures
Requests certain state departments to create a task force to study the availability and possible expansion of seats for adolescents in psychiatric treatment facilities across southeast Louisiana
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.