South Bossier bridge caves in over Red Chute Bayou

SOUTH BOSSIER, LA (KSLA) - A heavily-traveled bridge in south Bossier caved in on Monday, forcing area residents to seek alternative routes for the for seeable future.

The Red Chute Bayou Bridge on Sligo Road was already closed when it collapsed, and had been since mid-March due to high water, "drift accumulation, damaged bents and indeterminate severe erosion at the abutments, or supporting structures."

At the time, the LaDOTD said repairs would be made as soon as it is safe to do so, but added that high water prevents a complete assessment.

Officials said it was not known will the repairs would be completed.

According to the Bossier Parish Sheriff's Office Facebook Page late Monday afternoon, the Louisiana Department of Transportation had been "emphasizing the danger of the bridge, even to pedestrian crossing. It appears all for good reason."

The BPSO promises an update as soon as possible with the plans for repair/replacement and options the parish and state are developing to minimize the inconvenience to south Bossier residents.

A detour is available via Sligo Road and Highway 71.

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