An official with the state Department of Transportation and Development expects that all land needed for the Ryan Street exit ramp will be acquired by late September.

The $5 million to $6 million project will provide a modified westbound exit ramp to Ryan Street, connect the westbound ramp to the north frontage road and extend the south frontage road from Lakeshore Drive to Ryan Street, said Deidra Druilhet, DOTD spokeswoman.

She said DOTD is completing right-of-way acquisition and utility agreements. Both are estimated for completion in September, she said.

“All but two parcels have been acquired for the proposed Ryan Street exit ramp, which are owned by Kansas City Southern Railroad,” she said by email.

John Cardone, Lake Charles city administrator, said people will have direct access to downtown from the interstate, making the ramp a major asset to downtown businesses.

“We’re excited about the project,” Cardone said Wednesday. “It will benefit those businesses, restaurants and retail stores.”

The project is scheduled to go to bid in late 2013 or early 2014, Druilhet said.

Construction is expected to begin next summer and is estimated for completion in fiscal year 2014-2015, according to the DOTD.

The project is being paid for with local, state and federal funds.

An official with the state Department of Transportation and Development expects that all land needed for the Ryan Street exit ramp will be acquired by late September. (American Press Archives)