BATON ROUGE, La. – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) was recently presented with an award by the Board of Commissioners of the Pontchartrain Levee District for its contribution toward the construction of the Cross Bayou pump station.

DOTD was recognized with the award for its funding contribution and commitment to St. Charles Parish, and for its cooperation in the public-private partnership that allowed the pump station to be built. 

DOTD provided approximately $7.1 million in statewide flood control program funding for the $18.8 million project. Other funding included approximately $2.5 million from Shell Chemical, $2.5 million from Motiva Enterprises, and $6.7 million from the Pontchartrain Levee District.

"We are honored to be recognized for our participation in this important project," said DOTD Secretary Sherri H. LeBas. "The construction of the new pump station will go a long way in helping to protect the citizens and infrastructure of St. Charles Parish."

The pump station will help to reduce localized flooding on the East Bank of St. Charles Parish, and will assist in preserving U.S. 61 (Airline Highway) as a major hurricane evacuation route. The pump station has the capability of pumping approximately 1,300 cubic feet of water per second, or approximately 580,000 gallons per minute. The pump station is a component of the St. Charles Parish Hurricane Protection System.

"This award highlights the importance of flood control projects in our state," said DOTD Port Priority Program Manager Randall Withers. "This project is yet another example of DOTD’s commitment in helping to mitigate hazards related to flooding in Louisiana’s communities."

The award was accepted for DOTD by Withers at a ribbon-cutting ceremony held for the pump station.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is committed to delivering transportation and public works systems that enhance the quality of life. In addition to more than 16,600 miles of roadway, including over 890 miles of interstate, DOTD supports the development of the state’s aviation, marine and rail infrastructures. Through this work, we are able to facilitate economic development, create job opportunities, improve vital evacuation routes, and make critical freight corridors safer and more efficient.

For more information, please visit www.dotd.la.gov, email dotdcs@la.gov, or call DOTD’s Customer Service Center at (225) 379-1232 or 1-877-4LADOTD (1-877-452-3683). Business hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Motorists can access up-to-date travel information by dialing 511 or by visiting www.511la.org. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).