PORT ALLEN - Tuesday morning, a new traffic sign listing drive times will be turned on.

The sign, on La. 1 south of I-10, will be turned on and start showing data at 6 a.m. The sign will provide travel times from the sign’s location to the I-110, US 61 and US 190 interchange in Baton Rouge. The purpose is to help inform travelers who are going to the northern parts of Baton Rouge when using the US 190 bridge is a better option than the I-10 bridge, the state said. While the I-10 bridge is over capacity, the US 190 bridge is underutilized.

Testing data shows utilizing the I-10 bridge is often the fastest option to reach the I-10, US 61 and US 190 interchange. However, during peak hours ranging from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, using the US 190 bridge can provide a faster option to crossing into East Baton Rouge Parish.

The sign cost roughly $64,000 and is part of an overall $3.4 million technology upgrade to the I-10 corridor.

There are new traffic cameras and other digital billboard signs that will share information with drivers. The message board signs provide travelers with information such as road conditions, travel times and when to use alternate routes. The signs are on eastbound I-10 before La. 415, US-190 East before La. 415, I-10 W before La. 415, -10 W before Essen Lane and I-12 W before Juban Road.

On La. 1 toward I-10, the sign uses data gathered by Bluetooth technology to determine whether the I-10 Mississippi River Bridge or the Old Bridge on US 190 is faster.

The signage will be activated at 6 a.m. Tuesday, the state said.

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