Posted on February 23, 2020
A coalition of federal agencies and the state of Louisiana has voted to approve four coastal restoration projects for design funding and two for construction funding.
A news release said the four projects approved for Phase I design funding with a combined cost of nearly $14 million include North Delacroix Marsh Creation and Terracing, Phoenix Marsh Creation – East Increment, East Catfish Lake Marsh Creation and Shoreline Protection, and Bay Raccourci Marsh Creation and Ridge Restoration.
The two projects approved for construction funding include the Labranche East Marsh Creation and West Fourchon Marsh Creation & Nourishment for a combined $59.6 million over more than 900 acres.
The project locations span St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Terrebonne, Lafourche, and St. Charles parishes. The funding was approved by the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration Act Task Force, federal legislation enacted in 1990 that is designed to identify, prepare, and fund construction of coastal restoration projects.
Funded from excise tax on fishing equipment and small engine fuels, the program has a budget of $30 to $80 million per year, which includes 15% in state-matched funds administered by the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. The Task Force has authorized 222 projects, of which 157 are active.
Source: neworleanscitybusiness.com
