About Ruston

What are the goals of the project?  To create an enjoyable, pedestrian-focused shopping, dining and service environment, with neat and clean infrastructure amenities. 

What is the Schedule?  Construction on Phases I & II of this project began July 6, 2009, and is estimated to last about six months

Will roads have to be closed?  Yes, there will be periodic road closings to accommodate construction.  Where possible the street and sidewalk closings will be limited to as small an area as possible to facilitate construction while at the same time accommodating vehicular and pedestrian to businesses.

What about parking?  All downtown businesses remain open.  On-street parking will be limited in some areas during the construction.  Patrons wishing to access businesses within this construction zone are encouraged to use the public parking lots as noted in the Downtown Parking Map.  Pedestrian access through and around the construction zone will be maintained.

Are new sidewalks, benches, trees, and lighting included?   Work on the downtown area includes installing underground power lines, new sidewalks and curbs, and new waterlines.  The City will also add benches, street lights, street planters, and hanging planters to create a pedestrian-friendly area that will enhance the overall feel of Downtown Ruston.

How many and what kind of shade trees will be planted to replace those that were removed?  Plant selection will be coordinated through the City Forester.

How much will the project cost, and where is the money coming from?  The current contract for Phase I & II construction is $1,359,084.  The La DOTD will pay $1,043,100; a USDA Grant obtained through the Delta Regional Authority at $127,000, with the balance to be funded by City at $188,984.

Who do I contact for more information?  Specific construction questions can be directed to Blake Weatherly with Hunt Guillot & Associates, LLC at (318) 243-1976, or bweatherly@hga-llc.com.  For general project information, contact Richard Aillet, Director of Engineering Services with the City of Ruston at raillet@ruston.org, or Lori Faile, Development Coordinator at lfaile@ruston.org. 

What are the hours of construction?  Hours of construction are typically 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  However, hours may be adjusted to accommodate various construction activities.