Louisiana House Bill HCR128

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/17/16
• Refer: 5/18/16

Caption

Directs the Department of Transportation and Development to repurpose certain congressional earmarked funds for the planning, design, and construction of the widening and improvement of certain portions of Louisiana Highway 30

Impact

The resolution mandates that the repurposing of these earmarked funds must occur before the end of the 2016 federal fiscal year, in adherence to the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016. It highlights the necessity of conducting a Stage I Environmental Study as a precursor to the highway improvements. The resolution aims to alleviate traffic issues exacerbated by the anticipated construction of a new Mississippi River bridge, which could further increase congestion without necessary upgrades to local roadways.

Summary

HCR128 is a House Concurrent Resolution that directs the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to repurpose specific congressional funds initially earmarked for the Pointe Clair Expressway in Iberville Parish. These funds, totaling two million four hundred three thousand five hundred forty dollars, will now be utilized for the planning, design, and construction of the widening and improvement of Louisiana Highway 30. This decision is crucial in addressing the significant traffic congestion on Highway 30, which serves as a primary commuter route for the parishes of Ascension, East Baton Rouge, and Iberville.

Sentiment

Support for HCR128 appears to be rooted in the recognition of the urgent need for traffic alleviation in the affected areas, reflecting a consensus among legislators regarding the importance of infrastructure improvement for regional growth and safety. However, the sentiment is tempered with a need to ensure that the repurposed funds go to impactful projects, and there may be concerns regarding how effectively these funds will be managed to achieve that aim.

Contention

While there is broad support for addressing traffic congestion, notable points of contention could arise regarding the allocation of funds and the prioritization of projects. Stakeholders may express differing opinions on the best use of federal funds and the efficiency of governmental agencies in executing such improvements. Ensuring adequate community input and addressing local needs in car and pedestrian safety during the planning phases could also present challenges.