The famous Huey P. Long Bridge in Jefferson Parish has a lot of significance to our Chamber and to this region. In fact, back in 2003, the Chamber embarked on a “Hurry the Huey” campaign to push the state to start the now world-renown bridge widening project (read more about “Hurry the Huey” and the Chamber’s history here). The widening project took the first Mississippi River crossing bridge for rail and auto built in 1935, and is transforming it into a $1.2 billion transportation super structure. The project more than doubles the driving surface on the bridge and the traffic capacity flowing from the east and west banks of Jefferson Parish.
On February 5, 2013, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Sherri LeBas announced that the bridge would be fully open to drivers on June 16, 2013.
With such an exciting achievement coming to completion, we knew we had to celebrate with something BIG.
Introducing The Great Huey P. Long Bridge Run
For the past several months, myself, along with many other representatives from the community, have been planning a grand bridge opening celebration. The Great Huey P. Long Bridge Run, an inaugural 5K race, celebrates the recent widening project of this historic bridge on Father’s Day, June 16, 2013. Runners will make this exciting crossing of the wider-than-ever bridge while reminiscing old times on the Mississippi River.
Even if you’re not a runner, the bridge will be open to the public to walk on and be a part of the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
For more information about the race, registration and sponsorship, visit www.hueyprun.com.
The first 1,500 participants to register will receive a commemorative hat!
