The Louisiana Legislature convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss critical transportation issues, particularly focusing on the proposed Louisiana International Terminal (LIT) in Saint Bernard Parish. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated transportation corridor to support the anticipated influx of truck traffic if the port is established.

The session began with a statement from a local council member emphasizing the importance of the transportation corridor for both infrastructure and resident safety. The council had previously passed a resolution in support of the road, and the member expressed newfound support for House Bill 616, which would facilitate the construction of the road at no cost to the parish. The member stressed that the road must be completed before the port begins operations to prevent overwhelming local roadways.

Subsequent discussions included input from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Port of New Orleans and local economic development organizations. They underscored the potential economic benefits of the LIT, projecting significant job creation and tax revenue for the region. The Secretary of LED highlighted that the project could generate over $1 billion in new state tax revenue and create thousands of jobs, reinforcing the need for the road to ensure the port's success.

Concerns were raised about the coordination between the port and local infrastructure, with assurances that ongoing collaboration would address these issues. The meeting also featured testimonies from local business owners and community leaders who voiced their support for the bill, citing the road's necessity for alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing economic opportunities.

The session concluded with a consensus on the critical nature of the proposed road and the LIT project, with participants acknowledging the need for swift action to secure Louisiana's competitive position in international trade. The discussions set the stage for further legislative action, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure development in supporting economic growth in the region.