Louisiana House Bill HR191

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/22/26
• Refer: 4/23/26
• Report Pass: 5/5/26
• Passed: 5/12/26

Caption

HIGHWAYS: Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to study the need for and safety of mountable median curbs on Range Avenue in Denham Springs, Louisiana

Summary

House Resolution 191 is a nonbinding legislative request directing the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to study the installation of mountable median curbs on Range Avenue in Denham Springs, including the safety data supporting that design and possible alternative options. The resolution focuses on a specific commercial and transportation corridor and asks DOTD to examine whether the median curb project was appropriate given available right-of-way and whether other designs could have achieved similar safety results. The resolution also requires DOTD to provide a written report of its findings to the House Committee on Transportation, Highways and Public Works by December 1, 2026. Because it is a resolution rather than a statute, it does not itself change roadway design standards or mandate construction changes, but it does formally place the issue before DOTD for review and public reporting.

Impact

HR 191 does not amend the Louisiana Revised Statutes or create enforceable duties for private parties; instead, it expresses the House’s concern about a specific roadway project and requests an agency study. Its practical effect is to prompt DOTD to evaluate safety, right-of-way constraints, and alternative traffic-control or median designs on Range Avenue, with the possibility that the findings could influence future transportation decisions, local corridor planning, or similar projects elsewhere in the state.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment appears supportive of the resolution and cautious about the underlying roadway installation. The House adopted HR 191 unanimously, 89-0, suggesting broad agreement that DOTD should review the project and provide a factual report. The bill text also reflects concern for both safety and the effects on local commerce, indicating a desire to balance transportation safety with business access and corridor usability.

Contention

The main points of contention are whether sufficient right-of-way existed for the mountable median curbs, whether DOTD adequately considered the impact on businesses along Range Avenue, and whether alternative designs could have provided comparable safety benefits. The resolution does not accuse DOTD of wrongdoing, but it signals concern from the local business community and legislators about the decision-making process and the tradeoffs between traffic safety and commercial access.