Parish Council Advances One of the Largest Roadway Projects in St. Tammany Parish History
At its February meeting Thursday night, the St. Tammany Parish Council funded the Mandeville Bypass Road, a $34 million new major roadway, which will ease traffic concerns and increase safety.
The 3.5-mile, two-lane divided roadway, which has been in the works for two decades, connects LA 1088 and U.S. 190, with entrances to Pelican Park and easier access to the Safe Haven campus and Fontainebleau State Park.
“Since my administration took office in 2020, we have pushed for real traffic and safety solutions with new routes through our parish, not just repaving roads,” said Parish President Mike Cooper. “I greatly appreciate the Parish Council, who prioritized our citizens’ needs with the advancement of this project. This is a great example of how much we can improve our great parish when we work together to provide a better tomorrow for all.”
The project is funded primarily from St. Tammany Parish Sales Tax District #3, with financial contributions from the City of Mandeville and Recreation District #1.
The Mandeville Bypass Road provides relief and an alternate route for motorists using LA 1088, LA 59 and U.S. 190, as well as other roadways. Traffic studies forecast that more than 3,500 vehicles will use the road daily, with peak daily trips totaling more than 14,200 from Pelican Park visitors.
“This much-needed project will provide a safer, more efficient way for our families to access not only Pelican Park, but also Fontainebleau State Park,” said District 7 Councilman Joe Impastato. “When I campaigned for my Council seat, this project was one of my top priorities. I want to thank President Cooper and my fellow councilmembers for their help in bringing this project to fruition.”
Additionally, the project includes a multiuse path along its entirety, connecting to the Tammany Trace, for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Construction is expected to begin before the end of 2024. The project is expected to take two years to complete.
