Statewide flood control program recommends seven projects; local officials press need for drainage fixes

The hearing received an update on the Statewide Flood Control program and testimony from local officials seeking funding for community drainage and flood‑risk projects.

Lucas Johnson, presenter for the Statewide Flood Control program, said the recommended construction program includes seven projects, five of them newly recommended in the most recent application cycle. "The recommended program includes 7 projects, 5 of which are newly recommended projects from the most recent application cycle," Johnson told the committee. He said the seven projects will provide over $83 million in flood damage reduction benefits upon completion.

Mayor Leroy Sullivan of Donaldsonville testified about two projects his city submitted: the Bunhood and Country Village drainage improvement (about $4.15 million) and the Loop 945 drainage improvements (about $2.6 million). Sullivan said repeated rains cause roadway closures and prevent school buses from serving some neighborhoods, and he asked the committee to support the recommended projects.

Randy Clouette Sr., representing the Pontchartrain Levee District and regional interests, told the committee the regional projects (including a Perkins Road bridge raise and Highway 22 gap/flow improvement) affect multiple parishes and that the district supports funding for projects that provide watershed benefits across parish lines.

Johnson told the committee the program has completed 133 projects to date and expended more than $313 million, producing an estimated $3 billion in flood damage reduction value. The committee did not vote on the recommendations at the hearing; Johnson said he would answer questions and follow up with technical materials as requested.

Senator Price and other members thanked the local officials for bringing regional coordination and infrastructure needs to the committee's attention. The committee will consider the recommended projects in a future meeting.