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DOTD tells committee LTIF preservation projects are on schedule; members seek more project‑level detail
Summary
DOTD Secretary Joe Donahue told lawmakers that LTIF preservation projects are progressing, with 18 projects let in Q1 and additional projects slated across the fiscal year; members requested lists tying redistributed FHWA and district maintenance funds to specific projects.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development briefed the House Transportation Committee on Sept. 20 about additional preservation projects funded through the Louisiana Transportation Infrastructure funds (LTIF), saying work is on schedule and several projects have been let.
"So this is the broad overview. We are, completely on schedule," Secretary Joe Donahue told members, noting 18 projects were let in Q1 and that a total of 39 construction projects and two activity projects will use LTIF funds across the fiscal year. Donahue said the LTIF package and related projects were negotiated with legislative leadership and the governor's office and that JLCB approval had been secured for Act 410 appropriations.
Members pressed for more project‑level detail. Representative Jackson asked how a $104 million FHWA 'August redistribution' was being used; Donahue said the redistribution is an annual pot of unused federal funds and promised to bring a list of the projects tied to Louisiana's portion of that redistribution at the next meeting. Representative Walters asked whether district representatives could participate in prioritizing extra funds; Donahue said district administrators are available to meet with legislators and would accommodate requests.
Deputy Secretary Barry Keeling clarified how motor vehicle sales tax proceeds are apportioned, explaining roughly $330 million flows to the department from the 60% allocation, with about $160 million designated for four statutory 'mega' projects and the remainder for the highway program. Keeling and Donahue said they were coordinating with other state officials about next fiscal year's revenue and any potential changes.
Committee members also raised workforce issues: the chair and members said some districts struggle to retain inspectors; Donahue said civil‑service pay structures and funding limitations constrain salary adjustments for long‑tenured staff and that the department will raise the issues during the upcoming budget cycle.
DOTD officials offered to return next month with a project list tying redistribution and LTIF funds to specific lettings.
