Tina Athalone

The Board discussed the proposal to privatize the Cameron Ferry service operated by LabMar Ferry Services, including an evaluation of the proposer's performance metrics and qualifications. The board formally certified that the privatization initiative serves a public purpose, considering factors such as reliability, regional transportation needs, and infrastructure requirements. Additionally, the board approved the proposal to proceed with the privatization, subject to the finalization of a comprehensive agreement and the establishment of transition plans for current staff. Updates were provided regarding the construction and delivery of new hybrid ferry vessels and feasibility studies for terminal expansion.

The board meeting will address the Cameron Ferry Privatization proposal submitted by LabMar Ferry Services, LLC. Key agenda items include voting on whether the proposal serves a public purpose, voting on the approval of the proposal contingent upon the negotiation and execution of a comprehensive agreement, and a discussion regarding the next steps for the privatization project.

The legislative public hearing reviewed the highway construction priority program for the fiscal year 2026-2027 in DOTD District 2, encompassing several parishes. The hearing included a presentation from the DOTD Secretary, providing a general update on transportation progress and district-specific initiatives. Discussions covered the importance of public feedback, project prioritization, and the enhancement of efficiency and accountability within DOTD. Key topics included streamlining project delivery, improving processes, and the implementation of a five-year highway priority program. The hearing also addressed the allocation of federal and state dollars, the impact of additional funding through the Louisiana Transportation Infrastructure Fund, and the use of operational maintenance funding for various maintenance activities.

The meeting focused on the highway program, with discussions on project selection, feedback from legislative and local officials, and public input. Key factors in project selection included conditions, average daily traffic, safety concerns, and maintenance costs. The meeting also covered the creation of the office of transformation project delivery, efforts to modernize internal processes, and the establishment of a five-year living constraintity program. Funding for transportation projects, including roadway preservation, was discussed, along with updates on construction timelines and the allocation of maintenance funds. Specific projects, such as the rehabilitation of Highway One and improvements to visitor centers, were highlighted, as well as mega projects like the Jimmy Davis Bridge and the I20 rehabilitation project.

The Joint Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committee will hold a series of Public Hearings to review highway construction priorities for the state fiscal year 2026-2027. The Preliminary Program for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 will be available for review starting October 1, 2025. Interested persons are invited to express their views in person or in writing.