House Bill No. by Representative Wright seeks to empower the Port of New Orleans to pursue 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 delineates the powers and responsibilities of the board of commissioners overseeing these initiatives. It highlights the significance of the transportation corridor in linking the Louisiana International Terminal to the interstate highway system, which is expected to bolster economic growth and competitiveness. The board is authorized to enter into agreements with governmental entities and acquire necessary property for the construction and maintenance of the roadway.

Furthermore, the legislation grants the board the authority to design, construct, and regulate the transportation corridor, including the ability to impose tolls for its operation and maintenance. It streamlines the process for project development by allowing the board to solicit proposals for public-private partnerships without requiring approval from the Louisiana Transportation Authority. The bill also provides for the potential transfer of jurisdiction and control of the roadway to the Department of Transportation and Development, ensuring compliance with state standards. Additionally, the board is empowered to conduct surveys on public and private lands, with provisions for notifying property owners and compensating them for any direct damages incurred. The proposed law reinforces the board's autonomy in exercising its powers, facilitating the efficient development of the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor.

Statutes affected:
HB616 Original: