ST BERNARD, La. — The Saint Bernard Parish government is suing the Port of New Orleans to prevent them from operating a port facility in Saint Bernard Parish.
The lawsuit says Port NOLA does not have legal jurisdiction to operate a shipping facility within the borders of Saint Bernard Parish.
Legislation passed in 1992 stripped the port of all of its jurisdiction in the parish, According to the suit.
A press conference took place Friday morning at the St. Bernard Parish Courthouse.
Here's what Port NOLA President and CEO Brandy D. Christian had to say:
“We were made aware of the lawsuit this morning and will review and respond in due course. However, a challenge to the Port of New Orleans’ jurisdiction to operate a marine terminal in St. Bernard Parish is preposterous.
For decades, it has been clear that a new container terminal is needed downriver from the Crescent City Connection Bridge in order to secure the future of the state’s trade-based economy and to make Louisiana the premier shipping gateway in the Gulf.
Unfortunately, it’s situations like this that have left Louisiana struggling to compete with neighboring states. Election year theatrics, when this process has been going on for years with regular outreach and input are unproductive.
It has been made clear that the development of the project is a priority for the State of Louisiana, evidenced by vocal support from the highest levels of state government, including millions of dollars of state funding as well as an $800 million commitment from private global industry leaders in support of this project. The Port of New Orleans has made significant progress toward the design and development of the $1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal in the community of Violet, including the land purchase, extensive community engagement and adjacent infrastructure investments through a transparent permitting process.
The design of the new terminal has incorporated extensive public feedback from the community and St. Bernard public officials. And, we remain committed to working with local stakeholders every step of the way.”
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