Urges and requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to reevaluate the new industrial lock and connecting channels project in New Orleans
Impact
The resolution, while not a binding directive, signals the intent of the Louisiana House of Representatives to involve local voices in the decision-making processes relating to infrastructural development. By calling for updated environmental impact assessments and traffic studies, this resolution seeks to ensure that any potential project changes consider the realities and needs of the affected communities. Specifically, it stipulates a reevaluation of the project in light of past traumas experienced by the community, fostering a sense of accountability and transparency from federal and state representatives.
Summary
House Resolution 26 urges the United States Army Corps of Engineers to reevaluate a new industrial lock and connecting channels project in New Orleans. The resolution emerged due to a community concern that local representatives and constituents were not adequately consulted prior to initial meetings regarding the project. The importance of community feedback is emphasized, with residents expressing lingering apprehensions following their prior experiences during Hurricane Katrina. The resolution advocates for a more inclusive consultation process by demanding that the Corps conducts community meetings to address public concerns, especially those in the Upper and Lower Ninth Ward areas directly affected by the project.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment surrounding HR26 appears to be one of community advocacy and protection. Legislators and affected constituents are portrayed as united against top-down decision-making that disregards local sentiments and issues. This resolution reflects a broader recognition of the need for dialogue between citizens and governmental bodies, accentuating the importance of local input in decisions that could significantly impact their ongoing recovery and quality of life.
Contention
Key points of contention pertain to the alleged oversight by the Army Corps of Engineers in engaging with local representatives before the project's announcement. Concerns about insufficient environmental evaluation, traffic implications, and the long-term benefits to the affected communities also surfaced. The bill reflects a critical stance toward potentially harmful projects that do not prioritize community feedback, highlighting a tension between development initiatives and local governance.
Requests that the United States Army Corps of Engineers maintain a minimum of 9 foot deep by 200 foot wide channel to allow safe and reliable barge transportation on the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway
Urges and requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to cooperate in developing a solution to adaptively manage Mardi Gras Pass
Urges and requests the United States Army Corps of Engineers to reconsider the mitigation and stewardship plan for the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion to include tidal levee protection for Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point
Requests the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to consider additional water diversion projects in addition to the Bonnet Carre' and Morganza Spillways to address high water issues on the Mississippi River.