NEW ORLEANS – The St. Bernard Transportation Corridor, a vital infrastructure project long-awaited by the residents of St. Bernard Parish, is set to receive a significant boost with a $15 million federal funding allocation. This allocation, part of the recently passed Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies (THUD) Act for 2024, marks a crucial step forward in the development of the corridor, which aims to connect the new $1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal (LIT) to the interstate system.
U.S. Senator John Kennedy played a pivotal role in securing this funding, having requested and received the allocation to propel the planning, environmental, and engineering work for the project. Senator Kennedy emphasized the economic benefits of this investment, stating, “With this $15 million investment, helping grow Louisiana’s economy and creating good jobs here at home. When completed, the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor will also ease local traffic by connecting Lower St. Bernard to the interstate system.”
The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) has been steadfast in its commitment to the development of the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor, viewing it as a parallel project to the construction of the Louisiana International Terminal. This corridor project will feature an elevated roadway linking the future LIT in Violet to Interstate 510, serving as a crucial artery for St. Bernard Parish.
Port NOLA President & CEO Brandy D. Christian expressed gratitude towards Senator Kennedy for his support, stating, “We want to express our sincerest gratitude to U.S. Senator John Kennedy for helping deliver a road that has been sought after by St. Bernard Parish leaders and residents for years.” Christian highlighted the collaborative efforts between local, state, and federal partners over the last five years, culminating in the realization of this vital infrastructure project.
In addition to federal funding, various entities have contributed to the advancement of the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor. The State of Louisiana allocated $50 million for the design phase, while the Regional Planning Commission awarded a contract for a comprehensive study. Furthermore, Port NOLA announced significant federal grant awards totaling over $226 million, underscoring the importance of the Louisiana International Terminal in driving economic growth and job creation.
The development of the Louisiana International Terminal has garnered substantial support, with the U.S. Department of Transportation awarding Port NOLA $300 million in federal grant dollars, including the largest federal investment in a new container terminal in US DOT history. Additionally, Ports America and Mediterranean Shipping Company have committed $800 million towards the project, signaling confidence in its potential impact.
Construction for the Louisiana International Terminal is slated to commence in 2025, with the first berth expected to open in 2028. As stakeholders continue to rally behind this transformative endeavor, the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor represents a significant milestone in bolstering infrastructure and driving economic prosperity in the region.
