HIGHWAYS: Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to study the feasibility of incorporating an interstate highway signage maintenance and reporting program

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kellee Hennessy

Louisiana would study creating a statewide interstate signage maintenance program focused on regular upkeep and reporting to improve safety and potentially cut long-term costs.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.

Summary of HR 275 (Louisiana 2026 Regular Session)

Purpose and Intent

HR 275 is a House Resolution that urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to study whether it is feasible to establish an interstate highway signage maintenance and reporting program.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of interstate signage for safety, navigation, and the state's public image.

Key Provisions and Changes Proposed

The DOTD is asked to conduct a feasibility study on creating a statewide program dedicated to maintaining and reporting on interstate highway signs.

If established, the program would focus on routine maintenance rather than the current practice of primarily replacing signs.

The resolution notes potential methods such a program could involve, including:

Regular cleaning of signs (to prevent dirt/debris obscuring visibility).
Application of protective treatments to extend sign life.
Systematic reporting of sign damages and overall sign status.

It acknowledges available federal grant programs that could support such an initiative, including:

Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Program
Surface Transportation Block Grant Program
Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program

Cost considerations cited in the resolution include:

Estimated maintenance cost per sign: $250 to $475
Estimated replacement cost per sign: $4,350 to $6,650
Potential that routine maintenance could double the expected sign lifespan.

The resolution projects that implementing a maintenance program could create approximately 20 new positions (employment impact).

The intent is to promote safety and the well-being of Louisiana residents through improved interstate signage management.

Affected Parties and Areas

Primary: Louisiana DOTD (state agency responsible for transportation infrastructure and signage).

Beneficiaries: Motorists and the traveling public in Louisiana, through improved visibility and reliability of interstate signs.

Potential workforce impact includes the creation of about 20 new jobs related to maintenance, inspection, and reporting activities.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

The resolution directs the DOTD to submit a written report detailing findings on the benefits and feasibility of a statewide interstate signage maintenance program.

Deadline for the report: Prior to January 1, 2027.

The report is to be provided to the Louisiana House Committee on Transportation, Highways and Public Works.

The resolution also directs that a copy be sent to the secretary of the DOTD.

Practical Implications

If the study finds feasibility and benefits, Louisiana could pursue funding and implement a formal maintenance program for interstate signs.

Such a program could shift practice from primarily sign replacement to proactive maintenance, potentially lowering long-term costs and improving safety.

The involvement of federal grant programs suggests potential for external funding to offset program costs.

The resolution itself does not mandate immediate changes or funding; it initiates a study and reporting process to inform future decisions.

Additional Details

Sponsor: Representative Dickerson; Co-sponsor: Representative Kellee Hennessy.

Action noted: Read by title on May 13, 2026.