The Port of New Orleans proposed $2.3 billion container ship terminal in St. Bernard Parish has cleared a major regulatory hurdle.
The port announced Monday that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has approved the port's application to build the Louisiana International Terminal (LIT) on the river in Violet.
"This permit reflects what is possible when bold vision is matched by disciplined planning and strong partnership," said Michael Thomas, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans. "The Louisiana International Terminal will create lasting opportunities for our communities, strengthen America's supply chain, and ensure Louisiana remains at the forefront of global commerce for generations to come."
The port says this new terminal is vital to the region because cargo ships are growing too big to fit under the Crescent City Connection.
According to the port, modern container ships have outgrown much of the existing port infrastructure in the U.S., making this project not just vital for Louisiana, but important to the nation as a whole. It says LIT is being built to handle these larger vessels.
"As one of the nation's leading terminal operators, we've seen firsthand what modern, efficient infrastructure can do for American shippers," said Scott Anderson, Interim CEO and Chairman of the Board of Ports America. "The Louisiana International Terminal will be a best-in-class facility, and we’re ready to put our operating expertise to work as the project moves into its next phase, helping shape a terminal that meets the needs of the largest vessels calling on the Gulf."
There are still many more details to be worked out before construction begins, including new highways to allow trucks quick access to the interstate system, and expanding rail in the area to move maritime cargo out by train.
