Posted on February 3, 2025
Plaquemine, LA – Today, the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) joined Iberville Parish officials to celebrate the start of construction on the Bayou Pigeon Boat Launch Improvement Project, an essential and highly used resource for recreation and the commercial industry in the Atchafalaya Basin.
Considered the eastern gateway to the Atchafalaya Basin, Bayou Pigeon provides boaters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts with direct access to the area’s swamps and waterways.
The project will significantly improve the area by increasing the number of boat launch lanes from two to seven, adding new floating piers to facilitate easier boat launching and retrieval, and upgrading parking and trailering facilities, including ADA-compliant parking spaces.
As part of the Atchafalaya Basin Program, CPRA is dedicating over $2 million in state funds to complete updates to address long-standing infrastructure deficiencies and improve access to one of Louisiana’s most treasured natural landscapes.
“CPRA is committed to integrating recreational enhancements with coastal protection and restoration efforts to ensure that Louisiana’s coast remains accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike,” said CPRA Executive Director Glenn Ledet, Jr. “The Bayou Pigeon Boat Launch project allows us to improve recreational opportunities, support local businesses, and bolster the region’s overall economy.”
Beyond recreational use, the Bayou Pigeon Boat Launch is among the most frequently used facilities for commercial activities, including commercial fishing and crawfishing, as well as access for oil and gas industry workers and equipment transport, in the Atchafalaya Basin.
“The new Bayou Pigeon Boat Landing will be a tremendous asset for Iberville Parish residents and fishermen from across the region,” said Parish President Chris Daigle. “The upgraded boat landing will provide enhanced access and improved accessibility for all Atchafalaya enthusiasts. We are grateful for CPRA’s partnership in making this important project a reality, ensuring greater opportunities for our community to enjoy and benefit from our natural resources.”
Neel-Schaffer, Inc., La Terre Engineering, LLC, GeoEngineers, and Fugro completed the project’s engineering and design phase. LA Contracting Enterprises, LLC is leading construction, which is expected to be completed in Spring 2026.
