Saint Bernard Parish residents oppose New Orleans Port container facility plan

The Louisiana Legislature's Transportation meeting on May 12, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the proposed expansion of the New Orleans Port and its potential impact on local communities, particularly Saint Bernard Parish. Residents voiced strong opposition to the plan, citing fears over increased traffic and safety risks for children.

A local resident passionately expressed that the port's expansion would bring thousands of container trucks into the area daily, significantly affecting the community's safety and quality of life. The resident emphasized that the existing infrastructure, which includes a four-lane thoroughfare, is inadequate to handle the projected influx of over 5,000 trucks per day. This increase in traffic poses serious dangers, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times.

The testimony also reflected on the historical context of the community's struggles, recalling the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent efforts to rebuild. The resident argued that the port's plans threaten to undo two decades of hard work and progress in creating a safe and thriving environment for families.

Concerns were raised about the lack of tax benefits for the local government and school system, with the resident highlighting that only the port would gain from the proposed facility, which is expected to impose a significant burden on the residents of Saint Bernard Parish.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between economic development initiatives and community welfare, as local leaders and residents continue to advocate for their interests in the face of large-scale industrial projects. The discussions will likely influence future legislative actions and community responses as the situation develops.