Atchafalaya Basin Bridge, Road bridge in Louisiana, United States
The Atchafalaya Basin Bridge is a road crossing in Louisiana, United States, carrying Interstate 10 over the swampy Atchafalaya Basin on two parallel reinforced concrete spans. The total length reaches around 18 miles (29 kilometers), linking Baton Rouge and Lafayette with an unbroken route through the wetlands.
Work started in 1971 and finished in 1973, creating what was then the second longest crossing in the United States. Planners intended to carry Interstate 10 over the vast wetland and cut travel time between the two cities.
Local drivers call the crossing by its memorial name, Louisiana Airborne Memorial Bridge, adopted in 1989 to remember paratroopers and glider troops from World War Two. Veterans from the 82nd Airborne Division led the effort to dedicate this route, and signs along the roadway mark the tribute.
Trucks stay in the right lane with a speed limit of 55 mph, while other vehicles may use both lanes up to 60 mph. Drivers looking for rest stops should plan around the two exits at Whiskey Bay and Butte La Rose.
The entire crossing offers only two exits, requiring careful planning for emergencies or rest breaks. The route passes through wetlands where alligators and waterbirds are often visible from the roadway.
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