Central Louisiana News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) has revealed that the Port of New Orleans is set to benefit from a significant financial injection of $7,117,567.00. This funding, sourced from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), will be allocated through the Department of Transportation's Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) Grant Program. According to Dr. Cassidy, the funds will be utilized for a variety of purposes aimed at enhancing the port's infrastructure and workforce development.

In response to the announcement, Dr. Cassidy emphasized the importance of ongoing improvements at the port, stating, "Continually upgrading our ports is essential to attract new businesses and keep and create jobs."

Port NOLA President & CEO Brandy D. Christian also expressed the port's commitment to sustainable practices and community support, noting, "We continue to prioritize the utilization of green technologies and infrastructure, sustainable transportation, and helping underserved communities through workforce development initiatives."

Acknowledging the critical role of public-private partnerships in infrastructure development, Keith Palmisano, Vice President, and General Manager of Ports America Louisiana, conveyed gratitude for Senator Bill Cassidy's support in securing the investment. He highlighted the significance of the funding in advancing modern and sustainable operations at Ports America Louisiana.

The importance of environmental stewardship and efficiency was underscored by Kristopher Calkins, New Orleans Terminal, LLC CEO, who stated, "The Port of New Orleans is a vital gateway to the world's supply chain, and an economic engine for Louisiana and the nation. We realize the importance of reducing emissions, increasing efficiency, and modernizing our infrastructure for the future."

Additionally, Tina Tinney, Ed.D., Nunez Community College Chancellor, emphasized the collaborative efforts aimed at fostering career pathways in maritime and logistics sectors, stating, "We look forward to working with Port NOLA and our other partners to establish pathways related to maritime and logistics careers, deliver technical skills instruction to support new port-related technologies, and supporting the fulfillment of apprenticeship opportunities."

The collective sentiments expressed by key stakeholders reflect a shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting workforce development at the Port of New Orleans.