Plaquemines Port reports Belchase ferry back in service; new diesel-electric ferry in procurement

Port staff told commissioners the MV Belchase 2 returned to service after a rapid repair effort that took about 10 days, and that the Coast Guard inspected and cleared the vessel.

“Total of 10 days from being out … to coming back to Belchase. A total of 10 days,” a commissioner said in thanks to staff for the quick turnaround. A member of the public, identified in the record as Author Henry Del, described the damage as a bent propeller and said parts were available at the shipyard; staff confirmed the prop was replaced and inspected.

Staff said the port is managing other fleet challenges: one vessel had broken bolts being repaired, another was awaiting a generator solution, and port engineers expect follow‑up work mid to late April. A rendering of a new diesel‑electric ferry was shown; staff said they are still awaiting a final bid package from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and legal clearance before procurement proceeds.

On passenger capacity, staff said the downstairs seating area of the new ferry is sized for “about 34” passengers. On repair cost, staff said a final figure was not yet available: “I don’t know. We don’t have a final cost yet,” a staff member said.

Staff also reported progress on multiple landing and barge replacement projects, including the Point La Hache ferry landing (construction currently estimated to conclude at the end of 2028) and Belchase landing engineering work. The port said it will circulate more detailed written updates to commissioners by email.

The status report was given during the meeting’s staff update; commissioners praised the repair effort and thanked crews and contractors. Next steps: staff will provide commissioners with the detailed written reports and the port will await DOTD’s legal clearance and final bid package before moving forward with the diesel‑electric ferry procurement.