Recognizing the importance of an urban collector roadway to serve the rapidly growing southwest Alexandria area, the City invested $16 million in infrastructure improvements. MML&H provided comprehensive engineering services including right-of-way maps, real estate negotiations, and coordination of appraisals, all permitting, wetlands mitigation, and resident inspection in addition to basic design services. To expedite the project, five construction packages were planned. Planning meetings were held with stakeholders and LaDOTD representatives to determine the preferred route to extend Versailles Boulevard to LA 28 West. A critical element was the coordination of drainage design to comply with the master drainage plan of the prominent 900 acre Lakes District Development. The project consisted of 6,800 feet of three-lane concrete roadway, subsurface drainage, new major intersection with traffic signal, gas and water mains, 36” and 42” diameter deep gravity sewer, a 940 GPM sewer lift station, and a 5 barrel 10’ x 10’ RCBC at the Diversion Canal. Another important design element was the intersection at LA 28 West, the associated modifications to LA 28 West, and egress and circulation improvements to the Rapides Parish Police Jury property opposite Versailles Boulevard.
