House Bill No. by Representative Wright seeks to empower the Port of New Orleans to engage in public-private partnerships for the development of the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor and the Louisiana International Terminal. The bill introduces a new subpart within the Louisiana Revised Statutes that outlines the powers and responsibilities of the board of commissioners overseeing these projects. It highlights the importance of the transportation corridor in linking the Louisiana International Terminal to the interstate highway system, which is expected to bolster Louisiana's economic growth. The board is granted the authority to enter into agreements with governmental entities, acquire necessary property, and design, construct, and regulate the corridor, including the ability to impose tolls for its operation and maintenance.

Additionally, the legislation allows the board to solicit proposals for public-private partnerships without requiring approval from the Louisiana Transportation Authority. It provides the board with extensive powers, such as setting toll rates, acquiring property without competitive bidding, and entering public and private lands for surveys with prior notice to property owners. The bill also ensures that the roadway and associated properties are exempt from state taxation and emphasizes that the development and operation of the roadway are essential government functions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transportation infrastructure in Louisiana while granting significant autonomy to the board in managing the project.

Statutes affected:
HB616 Original: