BREAUX BRIDGE, La. (KLFY)- The city of Breaux Bridge is moving forward with plans to extend Mills Avenue to Champagne Boulevard. The project aims to open new areas for residential and economic development.

Breaux Bridge Mayor Ricky Calais says the project has been on the city's agenda for years but is now coming to fruition.

"We're talking about something that has probably been discussed or at least dreamed about for maybe 50 years," said Calais.

Calais says design work originally began last year for the project, but was delayed due to land survey challenges. However, the project is now in motion thanks to funds from Governor Jeff Landry's office.

"The project involves extending Mills Avenue, which right now ends at Rees Street," said Calais. "It also involves extending it East and eventually intersecting with Doyle Melancon Road at Lion Castille Road. At the same time, it involves extending Champagne Boulevard, which is the street in front of the hospital north to intersect it with Mills Avenue at a roundabout."

In addition, Calais says the project will provide easier access to the Oschner St. Martin Hospital in Breaux Bridge, while also adding extra turning lanes to Rees Street.

"They provide for better transportation or access through the city for commuters, provide better access to the hospital, but again also allowing for the most optimal business and residential development," said Calais.

He says the bidding process is expected to begin next spring, with construction starting soon after.

"The plan would be around maybe March or April to be putting the project out for bids," said Calais. "To be getting those bids back in maybe early June and pursuing the start of the project itself."

Calais says the project is estimated to be completed in two years.

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