The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development officially broke ground Wednesday on the Cove Lane and I-210 interchange construction project. Mayor Randy Roach, DOTD secretary Sherri LeBas, and Keith Henson, the Senior Vice President & General Manager of L’Auberge Casino Resort, were among a number of local officials to attend the event.

In addition to the interchange, a roundabout will be built at the intersection of Cove Lane and West Prien Lake Road. Cove Lane will also be extended north to connect with a new public roadway that will run parallel to I-210 on the north side of the interstate.

Sherri LeBas said construction projects of this scale are about more than just improving an area’s roadways, there is also an effect on the local economy. LeBas described how the project will provide a number of jobs for the area, a fact she said that many people forget.

“Transportation projects such as this enhance the economic growth potential of the area,” LeBas said. “That is what this project does outside of enhancing travel along the corridor. We look at transportation and economics really hand in hand.”

The project has a fast-paced schedule. Construction for the interchange is supposed to begin in mid-October with a completion set for November 2013. The roadway improvements are intended to benefit the potential traffic demands associated with the new Golden Nugget Casino and resort being constructed.

Keith Henson, senior vice president and general manager at Pinnacle Entertainment, said the the public should be excited not only for the improved roadway, but the project surrounding it.

“We’re excited to be part of building a world class destination here in southwest Louisiana,” Henson said. “I can assure you, you’ll be proud of the resort being built next to L’Auberge.”

DeQuincy