Louisiana Senate Bill SR13

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/14
• Refer: 3/17/14
• Report Pass: 4/14/14
• Passed: 4/15/14

Caption

Requests the Department of Transportation and Development to incorporate an East Washington Street exit plan into its road design plan.

Impact

If enacted, this resolution aims to enhance traffic safety in Baton Rouge by advocating for infrastructural changes that would facilitate smoother transitions for vehicles exiting from Interstate 10 onto East Washington Street. The increasing traffic volume has raised the urgency for a strategic exit plan that adequately addresses current safety challenges, particularly involving large trucks and the merging of multiple traffic flows. Incorporating this exit plan is expected to improve the overall efficacy of traffic management in this heavily utilized area.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 13, introduced by Senator Dorsey-Colomb, urges the Department of Transportation and Development to integrate an East Washington Street exit plan into its road design plan for Interstate 10 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This resolution addresses safety concerns stemming from traffic congestion and operational inefficiencies at the crucial junction of Interstate 10 and Interstate 110, particularly affecting vehicles traveling southbound. Legislative discussions acknowledge that existing traffic conditions have worsened since a 1995 study prompted some adjustments to signage and road painting.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR13 appears to be largely positive as it promotes community safety and addresses pressing concerns that have been exacerbated by increased traffic. Supporters of the resolution, particularly local officials and residents, are likely to favor the proactive steps towards enhancing road safety. There was, however, a note of contention regarding the degree to which the Department of Transportation and Development would prioritize this initiative amid competing transportation projects and budgets.

Contention

While the resolution enjoys support aiming at improving local roadway safety, potential contention may arise regarding funding and resource allocation within the Department of Transportation and Development. Critics might argue that while the recommendation is sound, it needs to be balanced against urgent infrastructure needs elsewhere in the state. The resolution specifically calls for action but does not mandate any changes, thus raising questions about enforceability and the effectiveness of such requests.