The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced a temporary road closure that will affect access to England Airpark and Alexandria International Airport (AEX) next week.

According to DOTD, LA 498 (Airbase Road) in Alexandria will be closed at the Union Pacific Railroad crossing beginning Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, at 7 a.m. The roadway is scheduled to reopen to traffic on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, at approximately 4 p.m.

The closure will take place at milepost 0.140 on control section 840-45 and is necessary to allow Union Pacific Railroad crews to replace cross ties through the railroad crossing.

A designated detour route will be in place during the closure. Motorists will be directed north on LA 498, west to LA 1 north, then to Rapides Station Road north, continuing to I-49 south, and returning to LA 498. DOTD officials noted the detour can accommodate oversized loads and will be clearly marked for the traveling public.

All emergency response agencies will be notified of the closure to ensure continued access to the area.
Travelers heading to England Airpark or AEX during this time are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel.