Central Louisiana News

BATON ROUGE – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) visited Alexandria to speak at the monthly luncheon of the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce. He discussed opportunities in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to build roads, extend broadband, and create jobs in the region.

“People here have a vision to make Cenla a better place to live and work,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re helping by expanding broadband, authorizing I-14, and working to prevent flooding. That will benefit the entire region and build an economy for 2050.”

As of late last year, $20 million has been allocated to Rapides Parish from the National Highway Performance and Surface Transportation Block Grant programs within the U.S. Department of Transportation. This includes over $6.2 million for the LA 8: LA 119 to LA 1 project and over $5.5 million for the US 71/LA 1028-5: Lee Street to Andrews Street project. Additionally, more than $2.3 million has been granted to Alexandria International Airport and over $1.7 million to Esler Regional Airport. Multi-million-dollar grants have also been awarded to the City of Alexandria and Town of Woodworth for safe natural gas pipelines.

In May, over $1.7 million in Brownfield Cleanup Grants were issued for the region, including over $1.2 million to clean up the Former Rush’s Cleaners Site. The IIJA also includes $65 billion for rural broadband across America, which will benefit rural areas throughout Cenla.

Cassidy was welcomed by Ms. Deborah Randolph, President of the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“Senator Cassidy continues to be a tireless advocate for central Louisiana,” said Ms. Randolph. “He is working to protect energy jobs and build infrastructure, and we appreciate the opportunity to work with him to enhance our economy and quality of life.”

Earlier that day, Cassidy visited Cleco’s headquarters in Pineville where he met with employees about protecting their jobs and improving conditions in Cenla.

“We had a great town hall with Cleco’s employees, touching on issues important to us all,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Everyone there is committed to our state.”

During his visit at Cleco's headquarters, Cassidy discussed topics such as the economy, Social Security, immigration, and foreign policy with employees there.

“Thanks to Senator Cassidy for taking time to meet with our executive leadership team and visit with our Pineville employees,” said Mr. Bill Fontenot, CEO of Cleco. “His insights and support on federal energy policy are invaluable."

###