A bridge along Highway 90 in Louisiana has been closed indefinitely after the discovery of “significant deterioration” on crucial bridge supports.

The West Pearl Bridge on Highway 90 near the Louisiana, Mississippi state line has been closed since May 24th when the discovery of the “significant deterioration” of the bridge deck supports was discovered. 

As of this week, bridge inspectors will evaluate the damage and determine the extent of needed repairs, but no timeline for the reopening of the bridge has been released. 

The bridge is part of Highway 90, which becomes Chef Menteur Highway in Orleans Parish, and can take drivers from Hancock County, Mississippi, to New Orleans without needing to use Interstate 10. Drivers often use this route during hurricane evacuations or when I-10 is blocked by wrecks, reported NOLA News.

“This particular section of U.S. 90 is not considered a heavily traveled route, but will likely be closed for a while, so we encourage motorists to plan to take alternate routes, especially during hurricane season,” said Anna Ehrogtt, MDOT public information officer.

Traffic on the Mississippi side of Highway 90 has been rerouted to I-10 through Mississippi 604 & 607. 

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development suggests the following detours while the closure is on place: 

Eastbound: Take U.S. 190 West to U.S. 190 Business (Fremaux Ave.) to I-10 East. Proceed on I-10 East to MS 607 to U.S. 90 East.

Westbound: Take MS 607 to I-10 West. Proceed on I-10 West to US 190 Business (Fremaux Ave.) to U.S. 190 East.