Buckled Section of Johnston Street in Lafayette Closed Due to Concrete Pavement Blowup

🚧 UPDATE: Johnston Street, southbound, between Leonie St. and Arnould Blvd. is closed until further notice, effective immediately.

ORIGINAL STORY:

A significant incident unfolded today on Johnston Street, one of Lafayette's major roadways, as a section of the road buckled, forming what appeared to be a ramp-like structure.

The incident occurred in the southbound lanes near Our Savior's Church Midtown, close to Arnould Boulevard. Authorities swiftly responded to the scene, deploying safety personnel and a firetruck to secure the area.

Eyewitnesses captured the buckled portion of Johnston Street in photographs, which were widely shared on social media platforms, sparking concerns among local residents. The photos showcased the roadway's deformation, with a clear rise in elevation resembling a ramp. To ensure public safety, the firetruck was positioned to block access to the affected area, effectively diverting traffic and minimizing the risk of accidents.

Authorities have not yet released detailed information regarding the cause of the road buckling but DOTD is reportedly on the scene. Speculations regarding potential factors, such as extreme heat or heavy loads, have surfaced, but an official statement from the authorities is still pending. We have reached out to the relevant authorities for further clarification and are diligently pursuing updates to provide accurate information to the public.

Motorists traveling along Johnston Street are advised to exercise caution and be prepared for potential delays as authorities work to assess and address the situation. Alternative routes should be considered depending on the timeline for repairs.

This is a developing story and we will provide updates when they become available.