Piecing together a solution to the state’s financial mess is the primary agenda for lawmakers returning to Baton Rouge for the two-month legislative session that kicks off today. But aside from grappling with a $1.6 billion budget shortfall, the Capital Region Legislative Delegation also will be looking to secure money for a number of previously unfunded and newly identified roadway and infrastructure projects.
In a release issued this morning, the delegation—which includes lawmakers representing Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana parishes—outlined its top priorities. Of projects on the 2014 priority list that did not receive funding, the following three top the list of unfunded priorities this year:
- $5 million for an 8.9-mile overlay project on La. 16 between Head of Island and Port Vincent
- $1 million for a new interchange at Interstate 10 and La. 74 near Dutchtown
- $2.25 million for roadway improvements under the Go Program
As for new projects this session, the delegation has identified the following as the top priorities:
- $2 million to replace a bridge over the Amite River on La. 16
- $1.92 million for water distribution system improvements in Zachary
- $200,000 for construction of a small facility for waterway law enforcement housing and staged response in Livingston and Ascension parishes
- $500,000 in additional funding for a False River ecosystem restoration project
- $300,000 for the Capital Area YMCA at the Long Farm development
See the full list of priority projects for the local delegation this session, which will officially kick off when the the House and Senate gavel in at noon. Gov. Bobby Jindal speaks to a joint gathering an hour later.
