2015 Map of Rapides

About this map

Alexandria and the surrounding river bottomlands are captured here in a period of modern expansion along the Red River. The landscape is defined by its complex drainage network, where names like Alligator Slough, Tiger Bayou, and Irish Pitch Number One speak to the heritage of the Louisiana wetlands. While the urban footprint of the city and its Alexandria International Airport dominates the eastern section, the western portion of the map transitions into the wooded elevations of the Kisatchie National Forest. This intersection of managed timberland and alluvial plains reveals a pattern of settlement tied closely to the water, from the small clusters at Rapides and Alfalfa to the historic Belgard Bend. Features such as Kincaid Reservoir and the Lamothe Bridge highlight the engineering required to navigate and utilize this water-rich environment.