LAPLACE — Work began this week on the Fairway Drive bridge project, which parish leaders said should be completed within six months.

Fairway Bridge, located between Longwood Court and Ridgefield Drive and Country Club Drive in LaPlace, is closed to traffic during construction.

Improvements include installing new concrete pilings, replacing the old bridge with a new bridge and adding handrails.

Motorists are asked to use alternate routes and be on the lookout for crews and equipment. Signage is in place to assist motorists. Sealevel Construction is handling construction for $540,621, which is funded through the 2014 Bond Issue, Parish leaders said.

All emergency personnel, including the fire department, police department and emergency medical services have been advised of the repair schedule so alternate plans for emergency response can be developed.

St. John also announced bridge repairs on Woodland Drive would begin soon.