A new infrastructure project in St. Charles Parish has been completed, improving road connectivity and preparing the area for a future community park. Local officials gathered to celebrate the nearly $1.5 million project, which will help improve access between neighborhoods while supporting upcoming recreational development.
St. Charles Parish Completes $1.5 Million Roadway Extension Project
St. Charles Parish leaders officially marked the completion of a major roadway extension project on March 11 in Luling, Louisiana. The project connects Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway with Ashton Plantation Boulevard and extends Deputy Jeff G. Watson Drive.
Parish President Matthew Jewell joined members of the St. Charles Parish Council to celebrate the completion of the infrastructure improvements, which are designed to improve transportation access and safety in the growing area.
The project cost nearly $1.5 million and was fully funded by St. Charles Parish.
Project Improves Local Connectivity
The roadway project extended Deputy Jeff G. Watson Drive by approximately 1,270 feet. The extension improves traffic flow between nearby neighborhoods and creates an additional connection between major roads in the parish.
Officials say the project will help reduce travel times and improve overall accessibility in the area.
Key improvements included:
- Extension of Deputy Jeff G. Watson Drive
- Improved connection between Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway and Ashton Plantation Boulevard
- Installation of new street lighting
- Construction of a parking lot for a future dog park
Local leaders say these upgrades will help support future development and improve transportation infrastructure.
New Dog Park Planned for the Area
The project also prepares the site for a planned St. Charles Parish Dog Park. The new parking lot built during the roadway project will serve visitors who plan to use the park once it opens.
Parish President Matthew Jewell said the project reflects the parish’s commitment to both safety and community recreation.
He explained that improving transportation access while creating new public amenities remains a top priority for the parish.
The dog park is expected to provide a recreational space where residents can bring their pets while enjoying outdoor activities.
Road Named After Fallen Deputy
Deputy Jeff G. Watson Drive is named in honor of a St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy who died in the line of duty.
Deputy Jeff G. Watson lost his life on August 4, 2013, while serving the community.
Originally known as Rue La Cannes, the roadway was renamed to recognize Watson’s service and sacrifice.
Officials say extending the roadway continues to honor his legacy while improving the parish’s transportation network.
Engineering and Construction Teams
Several engineering and construction companies were involved in the development of the roadway project.
The project design was completed by:
- Civil & Environmental Consulting Engineers
- Danny J. Hebert, P.E., LLC
Construction work was carried out by Byron E. Talbot Contractor Inc.
The project’s final cost was $1,419,979.75, funded entirely by the parish government.
