A new access road will open next week for drivers dropping off and picking up students at Prien Lake Elementary on Nelson Road. (Donna Price / American Press)

An access road designed to improve traffic flow in and out of Prien Lake Elementary School on Nelson Road is nearing completion and will be ready to use on the first day of school on Aug. 15.

The project, which began in the spring after a $200,000 donation from Lake Charles LNG paired with matching funds from the Calcasieu Parish School Board, climbed to a total cost of $650,000 — but still came in under budget — after the project incurred additional costs.

The extra costs were because of issues with the soil, as well as the need to remove some trees.

A canopy at the school was included in the project, which features a drop-off/pickup area for students behind the school, with the drive looping back around to Nelson Road.

“I can’t see anything but positives from this road completion,” said Kelli Cooley, a local parent.

(Donna Price / American Press)

“It should help everyone — the parents, businesses, citizens of Lake Charles traveling on Nelson, and ultimately the children because less traffic congestion means safer roads.”

There are some changes to the drop-off and pickup procedures at the school that parents should be aware of, said Holly Holland, school system spokeswoman.

Holland said motorists can enter the drive from either direction on Nelson Road but can only exit right on leaving the drive.

At a School Board meeting earlier this year, several members was urgently needed because of major traffic issues on Nelson Road.