WHITE CASTLE — Iberville Parish and state officials marked the completion of the La. 995 bridge replacement at False Branch with a Tuesday ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The project replaced the existing bridge with a new structure meant to provide a safer and more reliable crossing for motorists traveling through the area, the Office of Louisiana Highway Construction said.

The OLHC said the new bridge provides a dependable crossing along La. 995 for residents and motorists. The agency also said the work supports infrastructure in rural parts of Iberville Parish, where agriculture plays an important role in the local economy.

“Replacing bridges like this one is an important part of keeping Louisiana’s transportation system in good shape, especially in rural communities where people depend on these local routes every day,” said OLHC Executive Director Archie Chaisson.

Construction began on March 2, and the project reached substantial completion on Oct. 29. The project replaced the original 57-foot bridge, which had served the area since 1979, with a new 80-foot concrete structure.