The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced that Pecue Lane and the new diverging diamond interchange at I-10 will open on Monday, January 12. Northbound Pecue Lane will open with two lanes for drivers. Southbound Pecue Lane will open with one lane until crews finish painting the road lines. The I-10 on ramps and off ramps at Pecue Lane are expected to open in the next few weeks.
DOTD asks drivers in Baton Rouge, Prairieville, and Gonzales to learn how a diverging diamond interchange works. Drivers should allow extra travel time as traffic patterns change. Videos and signs are being used to help people understand the new layout.
Why this new interchange matters for Baton Rouge drivers
The Pecue Lane and I-10 interchange is on one of the busiest roads in Baton Rouge. I-10 connects Baton Rouge to Ascension Parish and is used every day by drivers from Gonzales, Prairieville, and nearby neighborhoods. Many people also use this road to get to work, school, and shopping areas near Bluebonnet Boulevard and Siegen Lane.
Traffic often slows down in this area, especially during morning and afternoon rush hours. Cars, trucks, and delivery vehicles all share the road. Left turns and merging traffic can cause backups and crashes.
A diverging diamond interchange helps traffic move better in busy areas like Pecue Lane and I-10. Traffic briefly shifts to the left side of the road, which lets drivers enter and exit I-10 without crossing oncoming cars. This reduces traffic lights, confusion, and stopping. Studies show that delays can drop by 15 to 60 percent, especially during peak travel times. This can help reduce backups on local roads like Bluebonnet Boulevard and Siegen Lane.
How the design helps prevent car and truck wrecks
Safety is one of the biggest benefits of a diverging diamond interchange. Studies show that serious crashes often drop after these interchanges open. Injuries and fatal crashes can decrease by 30 to 50 percent. This happens because the design removes dangerous left turns and high speed crossing crashes.
In Baton Rouge, heavy traffic and large trucks increase the risk of serious wrecks. The new Pecue Lane DDI is designed to lower that risk by making traffic movements simpler and safer. Some minor crashes may happen at first as drivers learn the new pattern, but these usually decrease as people get used to the design.
Related: Rear-End Collisions are not Minor Crashes
Better traffic signals and smoother travel
The new interchange also improves traffic signals along I-10. Fewer signal steps are needed, which means shorter wait times at lights. This helps keep traffic moving and prevents long lines of cars from blocking nearby streets and driveways. Emergency vehicles also benefit from more reliable traffic flow.
Learning the new traffic pattern
Some drivers may feel confused the first time they use the diverging diamond interchange. This is normal. Most drivers understand the layout within a few weeks. Clear road markings, signs, and lighting help guide drivers safely through the area.
Pedestrians cross shorter distances at these interchanges, which can improve safety. However, the layout can be harder for people with vision problems if proper signals are not in place. Bicyclists may also find the design confusing unless separate bike paths are provided.
Related: Discover The Advantages of Roundabouts
A smart and cost effective road improvement
Diverging diamond interchanges often cost less than large highway rebuilds. They use fewer bridges and need less land. This makes them a good choice for growing areas like south Baton Rouge. While the project costs more than simple road repairs, studies show the long term safety and traffic benefits are worth the investment.
A safer future for Baton Rouge roads
Overall, diverging diamond interchanges are proven to improve traffic flow and reduce serious crashes. The Pecue Lane and I-10 interchange is meant to make one of Baton Rouge’s busiest travel areas safer and easier to use. As drivers adjust to the new traffic pattern, the goal is fewer car and truck wrecks and a safer drive for everyone.
If you or someone you love is hurt in a car wreck, Call Corzo at (225) 351-0459 because help, respect, and justice are only one call away.