Comite River Diversion Canal largely excavated; diversion structure and closures remain

The Amite River Basin Commission received an update on the Comite River Diversion Canal at its Jan. 13 meeting, with ARBC adviser Paul Sawyer saying most excavation is finished but critical end-work remains.

Sawyer said the project’s "bookends" include the diversion structure that will admit Comite River floodwaters into the canal and the Brooks Lake closure that will route flows into the Mississippi River. ‘‘Most of the excavating has been done,’’ Sawyer said, and added the pipeline-relocation issue that stalled parts of the project has largely been resolved, allowing excavation and bridge work (including a Highway 19 crossing between Baker and Zachary) to proceed or to receive notices to proceed.

On timing, Sawyer said no one is willing to set a firm deadline but offered an optimistic 2028 target for functionality and a more likely window of first to second quarter 2029. He said interim benefits will accrue as bayous (Baton Rouge Bayou, White Bayou and Cypress Bayou) are connected to the canal and drop structures or riprap are completed, which should reduce flood risk in Zachary and Baker prior to full completion.

Commissioners accepted the status report and did not introduce additional action items under old business; staff were encouraged to keep coordinating with federal partners, including scheduled quarterly engagement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address permitting and design issues.