Monroe City officials celebrate completion of Phase One of Kansas Lane extension

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - City officials gathered Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 29) to celebrate the completion of Phase One of the long-anticipated Kansas Lane extension — a project over three decades in the making.

The newly completed portion of the roadway connects Old Sterlington Road to Highway 165 near the Forsythe Bypass. This marks a significant milestone for the community, as the project has been a top priority for local leaders for years. Louisiana Senator Jay Morris highlighted its importance during the event.

"When I first got elected to the House in 2011, Sue Nicholson told me if not once, but a thousand times, this is the most important project we want," Morris recalled.

City Engineer Morgan McCallister was also present, sharing the good news that Phase One was completed ahead of schedule, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the project team.

"A wonderful team working on the project," McCallister said. "We're roughly three to four months ahead of schedule. This extension will benefit travelers moving through Monroe, especially heading towards the airport."

Phase One is only the beginning of the overall Kansas Lane extension project, which will eventually stretch 2.5 miles from Desiard Street to Highway 165. McCallister emphasized the need for drivers to exercise caution as they adjust to the new traffic patterns.

"Whenever you're adding another leg to that intersection, you have to account for the timing needed," McCallister explained. "All of the traffic light upgrades have been made, but please be mindful and extra cautious as you get used to the new intersection."

Monroe residents can expect the road to officially open to the public on Nov. 6.