Central Louisiana News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) has announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will provide $18,623,506.00 in funding to the Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District. The grant will be used to rehabilitate the Pointe à la Hache ferry landings, which were damaged by Hurricanes Ida, Zeta, Delta, and Laura, as well as Tropical Storm Harvey. Additionally, the funding will address critical needs for evacuation routes.

"Strong and resilient ports play an important role in creating jobs and economic opportunities in Louisiana," said Dr. Cassidy. "This funding will support the recovery of Plaquemines Port and evacuation routes for coastal communities."

The Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District is a vital transportation hub in Louisiana, facilitating trade and commerce along the Mississippi River. The district serves as a gateway for goods moving in and out of the state, supporting various industries and contributing to the local economy.

The damage caused by recent natural disasters has had a significant impact on the ferry landings, disrupting transportation and hindering the district's operations. The grant provided by the DOT will enable the necessary repairs to be carried out, ensuring the restoration of vital transportation links in the region.

Local officials and community members have expressed their gratitude for the funding announcement, recognizing the importance of investing in infrastructure to support the recovery and resilience of the area.

"The rehabilitation of the Pointe à la Hache ferry landings is crucial for the Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District," said [Name of Local Official]. "This funding will ensure that our transportation infrastructure is restored, allowing us to bounce back from the damage caused by the recent hurricanes and tropical storm. We are grateful to Senator Cassidy and the U.S. Department of Transportation for their support."

The grant will not only facilitate the recovery of the Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District but also enhance the evacuation routes for coastal communities. As Louisiana is prone to hurricanes and other severe weather events, having reliable evacuation routes is crucial for the safety and well-being of residents in the region.

"We must prioritize the safety of our communities, especially in times of natural disasters," said [Name of Local Representative]. "The funding provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation will help strengthen our evacuation routes, ensuring that our residents have the means to safely evacuate when needed. This investment in our infrastructure is essential for the resilience of our coastal communities."

The announcement of the $18.6 million grant highlights the commitment of the federal government to support the recovery efforts in Louisiana and ensure the long-term resilience of its infrastructure. The Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District will now be able to embark on the necessary repairs and improvements, safeguarding the economic prosperity and safety of the region.

As the rehabilitation work commences, the Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District will work closely with federal and local authorities to ensure the efficient and effective use of the funding. It is anticipated that the repairs will be completed in a timely manner, allowing the ferry landings to resume their vital role in the transportation network.

This funding announcement serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, working together to support the recovery and resilience of the Plaquemines Port Harbor & Terminal District. With the necessary resources and support, the district will continue to thrive as a key economic and transportation hub in Louisiana.