Central Louisiana News

BATON ROUGE – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) spoke at the River Region Chamber of Commerce’s quarterly breakfast in LaPlace. He discussed the funds allocated to the state and the River Parishes from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), including plans to extend high-speed broadband throughout rural Louisiana.

“The River Parishes are doing really well,” said Dr. Cassidy. “There’s local leadership, business investment, and new jobs. I will continue to work to support this community as it goes from glory to greater glory.”

Yesterday, Governor Jeff Landry announced the GUMBO 2.0 broadband program, funded by a $1.35 billion investment from Cassidy’s Infrastructure Law. The program aims to expand broadband access to 100,000 homes, including 60,000 rural homes, 35,000 businesses, and numerous schools, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies across the state.

The IIJA has also provided specific benefits for the River Region. Last May, a demonstration award was granted through the IIJA by the U.S. Department of Energy to Taft Carbon Capture, LLC in Hahnville for installing a commercial carbon capture facility at the existing Taft co-generation power plant. Additionally, over $9.8 million was awarded last August to St. John the Baptist Parish for raising flood-prone structures to prevent future flooding, with another $3.7 million going to St. Charles Parish for similar purposes. Last month, $700,000 was granted to the Ascension-St. James Airport and Transportation Authority for expanding the terminal apron at Louisiana Regional Airport.

Cassidy also addressed concerns about rising flood insurance premium rates in the region during his speech earlier this month on the floor of the U.S. Senate.

“We are sincerely grateful to Senator Dr. Bill Cassidy for visiting and speaking with the River Region Chamber member businesses,” said Mr. Ray Gregson, Interim Executive Director of the River Region Chamber of Commerce. “Senator Cassidy’s unwavering advocacy for economic growth in the River Parishes and across Louisiana drives our region forward.”

Later in the day, Cassidy visited WRSTBND, a company based in Jefferson Parish that develops technologies facilitating admissions and sales at live events.

“WRSTBND makes it easier to enter and buy concessions at concerts, football games, and events across the world,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy toured WRSTBND's facilities with their CEO Mr. Conway Solomon and officials from Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission.

“We were excited to host Senator Cassidy at our WRSTBND office today,” said Mr. Solomon.