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Plaquemines Port director outlines $50 million in projects; ferry landing work and new ferry advance
Summary
Executive Director Charles Tillotson told commissioners the port has about $50 million available for projects, reported ongoing riprap and bridge work at the Pointe LeHi ferry landing with a January 2025 target, and said a diesel‑electric ferry awarded to Pelican Marine could be completed within four years.
Executive Director Charles D. Tillotson reported that the Plaquemines Port Harbor and Terminal District has nearly $50 million available for multiple capital projects and provided progress updates Tuesday evening.
Tillotson said work to place riprap at the Pointe LeHi ferry landing is underway after a Corps of Engineers slope analysis delayed earlier work. He said crews are placing material in areas the corps identified as at risk and that a change order for additional damage uncovered during disassembly is expected, though the port had not yet received final change‑order paperwork. The director maintained the project's target completion remains January 2025.
On the replacement of the Pointe LeHi ferry bridge, Tillotson said the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development's contracting office has identified the project as a candidate for construction manager at‑risk (CMAR) delivery to align design and construction and control schedule and cost. He said Hardesty & Hanover was awarded the initial design contract but that final procurement details remained under review.
Tillotson also announced the port received a notice to proceed for a new diesel‑electric ferry awarded to Pelican Marine. He said the first project meeting occurred last week and that the port is targeting a four‑year timeline for delivery. He described the vessel as diesel‑electric and added the port expects the new ferry to improve service between the parish banks.
Shipyard work and vessel overhauls are proceeding, Tillotson said: a vessel contract was awarded to Thomas E. Moraine Shipyard for a full overhaul anticipated in about six months, and Port vessels 1 and 2 are undergoing repairs. He said grant funds are supporting much of the maintenance work.
The director also reported on related transportation work including the Peters Road bridge efforts, meetings with DOTD officials and a desire for the port to be the recipient of federal highway funds to expedite preliminary design work. He noted federal processing times for FHWA obligations can exceed a year and that staff were exploring additional grant avenues to fund later phases.
Finally, Tillotson said an SP (contract) early‑termination package had been received and counsel will review next steps; until that matter is resolved the related 11‑mile extension project remains at a standstill.
The port's board did not take further action during the presentation. The director closed by saying web and branding work and related outreach are ongoing to support economic development tied to the projects.
