Baton Rouge, La - Today, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) issued a survey to interested proposers or Request for Information (RFI) regarding the privatization of Crescent City Connection Division (CCCD) ferry service lines. Accounting for the removal of the CCCD tolls, this is the first step as DOTD moves forward with its plan to incentivize ferry privatization. The RFI will also be sent to local stakeholders to ensure their comments are included in the process.

"This request for information allows us the opportunity to review what potential entities would find valuable to the privatization process so we can present a feasible request for proposal into the marketplace," said DOTD Secretary Sherri H. LeBas. "Our goal is to work with an operator and/or developer that will provide the greatest value to the state and its taxpayers."

The three ferry service lines currently operated by the DOTD's CCCD are the Lower Algiers-to-Chalmette, Canal-to-Algiers Point, and Gretna-to-Canal lines in St. Bernard, Orleans, and Jefferson Parishes.

Under a potential privatization, the private ferry service provider would provide operation and maintenance services for all or some of the three ferry service lines, and have the ability to explore other revenue-enhancing activities, such as, development of the terminal and landing spaces, including subleasing to concessionaires; advertisement at the terminals/landings and on the ferries; tourism opportunities and special event services.

If interested in responding to the RFI, provide a Letter of Interest (LOI) to Cheryl Duvieilh, who is the official LA DOTD point of contact for this RFI, by email (Cheryl.Duvieilh@LA.GOV). The LOI should, at a minimum, name the contact information for the official point of contact for the respondent. Respondents should note that DOTD is only seeking information at this time, and this RFI in no way creates an obligation, contractual or otherwise.

In summer 2012, a call for proposals will be issued to public/private operators for best value submittals to privatize the operation and maintenance of the Gretna, Algiers and Chalmette ferries.

To comply with state law, DOTD will continue to move forward with its plan for the removal of the tolls. This plan will continue to fund services for bridge and road maintenance, bridge inspection, and incentivize ferry privatization, while state police will provide security services for the bridge and its commuters.

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 890 miles of interstate, DOTD supports the development of the state’s aviation, marine and rail infrastructures. Through this work, the department is 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 Custom 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).