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Council awards rehab contract for Coblorn project; members debate drydocking barge and bridge repair timing
Summary
The council accepted a low bid of $826,291.87 for the Coblorn's Bridal Rehab project, prompting an extended exchange about whether the associated barge should be drydocked now or later; staff said drydocking estimates were much higher and prioritized immediate electrical and structural needs.
The Lafourche Parish Council accepted a low bid from Sage Construction LLC for $826,291.87 for the Coblorn's Bridal Rehab rehabilitation project and authorized the parish president to sign and administer contract documents.
Councilman Lorraine questioned why the parish would not also drydock and fully overhaul a barge connected with the project now, arguing that previous promises and the barge’s ongoing condition put bridges and operations at risk. "If you're gonna tear it down to build the ramps, send it to the shipyard to get blasted," Lorraine said, questioning the long‑term approach and warning that costs will not decrease with delay.
Parish staff responded that an earlier bid package that included drydocking had come back around $1.8 million. The parish president (speaking during the item) said current work was narrowed to essential repairs (including electrical systems) so the bridge remains in service, and that drydocking remains a goal to be scheduled later when feasible. "We will dry dock the barge... that's my commitment," the parish president said, while explaining the immediate scope for $826,000 covered critical items.
The council voted to accept the low bid and proceed; Lorraine said he would vote for it despite reservations, calling the situation "a money issue" and urging more comprehensive action in the future.
Why it matters: the award advances repair of a bridge/boat interface project that council members said is critical to operations and safety. Tension between immediate lower-cost repairs and a larger drydocking overhaul highlights budget tradeoffs and infrastructure prioritization.
Next steps: the administration will execute the contract with Sage Construction LLC and schedule work; parish staff indicated they will plan for drydocking at a later date and report back to the council.
