Causeway officials are working to clear the bridge as icy conditions persist

On January 24, 2025By Littum

MANDEVILLE, La. (WVUE) – Crews brought in heavy equipment today to clear the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which remained closed due to dangerous icy conditions. Officials hope to have at least one lane reopen to first responders by Thursday afternoon.

Across the North Shore, many roads were becoming passable, although treacherous patches of black ice continued to threaten drivers. Despite repeated warnings to stay off the roads, more and more vehicles ventured out.

“Obviously, it’s a beautiful day and a lot of people need to be reminded that there are still thick layers of black ice on highways,” said Louisiana State Police Troop L Trooper Marc Gremillion.

As the sun shone on the icy streets, major roads like US Highway 190 south of Covington gradually became more accessible.

However, some drivers struggled to gain traction with vehicles fishing and sliding.

“It’s scary,” said Rene Hymel of Covington. “I lived in Connecticut and Cleveland, so I have four-wheel drive, but there are a lot of icy patches.”

In some cases, drivers took to every available dry spot, leading to near misses, including a close call between a passenger vehicle and an 18-wheeler near Covington’s Claiborne Hill.

Winter blowing

While some roads improved, others remained slick with ice, leaving those with four-wheel drive at an advantage.

“It’s been really slippery and freezing cold, but this truck handles well with four-wheel drive,” said Michelle Carey, a certified nursing assistant from Covington. “I’m pretty good at it.”

Carey said she had to brave the dangerous conditions to get to work.

The icy conditions gave many North Shore residents an unexpected day off.

“I’m glad I have a nine- and 10-year-old,” added Hymel. “They had fun and I hope everyone stays safe.”

Meanwhile, crews worked hard at the Causeway to remove hundreds of tons of ice and snow.

Causeway General Manager Carlton Dufrechou said efforts to clear the bridge would continue through the night with hopes of reopening tomorrow.

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