Gov. calls Mississippi River Bridge priority in state budget, I-10 bridge still needs funding

Lake Charles, LA (KPLC) – The state’s Home of Representatives final week despatched the senate its model of the state funds.

Governor Jon Bel Edwards desires extra money within the funds to go in the direction of constructing a brand new Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge.

What does this imply for the Calcasieu River Bridge?

Home Invoice No 1 handed with a 94 to 4 vote, however Governor Edwards stated he’s upset by the dearth of funding secured for the Mississippi River Bridge.

“There are too many commonsense causes, compelling causes, why this must be executed, and why it must be executed now,” Governor Edwards stated.

Initially, Governor Edwards proposed $500 million to be put in the direction of the bridge, citing document quantities of funding to spend money on infrastructure.

“If we don’t do it now, it’s laborious to see that we’ll be right here subsequent 12 months with a chance to do it,” Governor Edwards stated.

Governor Edwards known as it his precedence, however solely $100 million was put aside for the Calcasieu River Bridge – a venture that has been a sizzling subject for state leaders, in addition to the president.

“It’s an ideal instance how we’ve uncared for as a nation to spend money on the way forward for our financial system, and the way forward for our individuals,” President Joe Biden stated.

Locals who frequent the bridge name it a visitors hazard and an eye fixed sore.

“It looks like each time it rains, there are many wrecks,” Lionell Celestine stated.

“We’ve advocated continuously for funds from the federal authorities,” Keith DuRousseau, chairman of the I-10 Taskforce stated. “We’ve advocated funds from the state and native governments additionally.”

The I-10 bridge is estimated to price round $1 billion, however roughly $300 million is secured in keeping with native officers. The potential of tolls stay on the desk as a way to fund the venture.

“About this time subsequent 12 months, we should always have the request for proposals answered, the bids are available,” George Swift, president and CEO of the SWLA Financial Growth Alliance stated in a earlier interview. “Hopefully, they’ll award the bids by the top of 2023.”

The home has despatched the funds to the senate the place it may face extra adjustments.

Copyright 2022 KPLC. All rights reserved.