The new handicapped elevator at the historic Bogalusa City Hall will be able to lift 750 pounds as compared to its predecessor, which could only lift 300 pounds, according to Public Works Director James Hall.

Hall said wheelchairs have gotten heavier since the old elevator was installed in the public building.

“Now a wheelchair with nobody in it weighs about 200 pounds,” he said. “There’s been a lot of controversy over this. Maybe this will calm people.”

Hall said the elevator costs $6,600 and will be paid for through a municipal millage.

Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette said she hopes the elevator is only a start.

“I’m hoping this is one of many improvements for the handicapped to our historical city hall,” she said.

Perrette said the city hall would turn 100 years old on May 11, 2018.