Central Louisiana News

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy addressed the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, discussing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's effects on the local community. "When I was negotiating this bill, it was my hope that our state would benefit as much as possible. It is a pleasure to visit Natchitoches and know that it has received a grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill to redo a downtown thoroughfare," said Dr. Cassidy. "I am working so that every village, town and city benefits."

The RAISE grant for Natchitoches amounts to $17.2 million and was awarded in August 2022. The City of Natchitoches plans to use these funds to revitalize the Texas Street Business Corridor, improve feeder roads and neighborhood streets, and enhance sidewalks, walking paths, bike lanes, pedestrian lanes, and lighting.

In addition to this grant, funds have been allocated for bridge replacements in Natchitoches Parish and for improvements at the Natchitoches Regional Airport. Laura Lyles, President and CEO of the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomed Cassidy’s engagement with local legislative priorities: "We appreciate Senator Cassidy taking the time to engage with our Chamber membership about legislative priorities and how they impact our region."

Later in Coushatta, Cassidy visited CHRISTUS Health Care Center where he discussed Red River Parish's needs with local officials. "I did two good things in Red River Parish today," said Dr. Cassidy. "I met with community leaders and toured Coushatta Hospital... I got to talk about how legislation I worked on such as the Safer Communities Act can expand access to mental health care services in schools..."

Cassidy also explored CHRISTUS Coushatta's facilities which offer various health services supported by modern technology.

As Ranking Member of the Senate Health Committee, Cassidy has been proactive in advocating for rural healthcare initiatives like improving ambulance services through proposed acts such as Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act and PEERS in Medicare Act.

Brandon Hillman from CHRISTUS expressed gratitude: "We appreciate Senator Cassidy taking the time to tour CHRISTUS Coushatta... We were able to engage in a robust discussion about ways the Senator can continue to support rural health care in Louisiana..."