Study says LSU pumps $1.2 billion into local economy

A new report says that LSU pumps $1.2 billion into the Baton Rouge economy and accounts for 3% of the Capital Region’s gross domestic product. The study, headed by LSU economics professor Dek Terrell, found that the university directly or indirectly generated $680 million in salaries and wages, accounting for 4% of the salary totals in the metro area and generated more than 21,000 jobs. LSU professors and researchers also brought in nearly $100 million in federal research grants to the metro area. LSU Chancellor Michael Martin says the report, which was tied to the proposed budget cuts the university faces, doesn’t include the immeasurable cultural impact the school has. “This study shows that the state’s proposed budget cuts aimed at LSU are not just detrimental to the quality of education we provide, but are basically an anti-stimulus package for the Baton Rouge Area and beyond,” Martin says.