We live near Longview and have been through Jackson more times than I can remember. Considering the alternative routes, there is really no better way than right on I-20. My suggestion is to slow down on the few really bad sections. As I recall one of the worst is just east of Shreveport. I have never noticed any significant problem on I-220 and that is what I usually take.
My suggestion to slow down is not a "smart alec" remark. You could slow down enough to make a difference on those specific sections and still be far ahead in time traveled over any alternate route.
The secret is knowing before you approach those rough sections. For the first time driver on I-20 there is no solution to this secret except: "At the first 'bump' slow down."
There are miles and miles of good surface through Louisiana on I-20 and a few really rough spots.
There is a rough section east of Vicksburg and around Jackson one hits the "waves" and then some really rough surface within the city.
I been towing fifth-wheels over I-20 for 20 years.
