The Joint Transportation Committee of the Louisiana Legislature convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure projects and funding priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting began with a roll call, confirming the presence of key committee members, including Chairman Connick and Vice Chairman Fondland.

The primary agenda item focused on public testimony regarding two recommended port priority applications for fiscal year 2025. Julia Fisher Cormier, Commissioner of the Office of Multimodal Commerce, presented the applications, emphasizing their importance for Louisiana's economic development. The first application pertains to the Port of Terrebonne, which seeks funding for property acquisition and tenant development. The second application involves the Caddo Bossier Port, aimed at enhancing rail services to support two new cargo facilities, projected to create three jobs and boost local commerce.

Both projects were supported by economic analyses from the Louisiana Economic Development (LED) agency, highlighting their favorable cost-benefit ratios—48 for Terrebonne and 4.8 for Caddo Bossier. Following the presentation, Representative Phelps moved to approve the applications, which passed without objection, marking a significant step forward for these initiatives.

The committee also addressed the use of revenues from the Bellechase Public-Private Partnership (P3) project, as mandated by Act 73 from the previous legislative session. Joe Donahue, Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), explained the need for approval to utilize funds for a Consumer Price Index (CPI) buy-down, which would mitigate toll increases for local residents. This discussion underscored the ongoing efforts to manage transportation costs while ensuring infrastructure improvements.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue supporting vital transportation projects that contribute to Louisiana's economic growth and infrastructure resilience.