CURRENT Authority Holds Inaugural Board Meeting
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 8:43:15 AM
BATON ROUGE, La. – The Coordinated Use of Resources for Recreation, Economy, Navigation, and Transportation (CURRENT) Authority convened its first official board meeting on May 7, 2026, at the Louisiana State Capitol, marking a significant milestone in Louisiana’s efforts to strategically coordinate and enhance water resource initiatives across the state.
The inaugural meeting brought together state leaders, board members, and federal partners to begin discussions focused on long-term planning, infrastructure investment, flood resilience, navigation, economic development, and recreational opportunities tied to Louisiana’s water systems.
Representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ New Orleans and Vicksburg districts delivered presentations highlighting ongoing and emerging federal water resource projects throughout the region. The briefings emphasized opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth, while reinforcing the importance of strong federal-state coordination and the broad impact water infrastructure has on communities, industry, transportation, and quality of life.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) also provided an overview of the authority’s developing Master Plan and Annual Plan. During the discussion, DOTD highlighted how the extensive data collection and analytical work completed through the Louisiana Watershed Initiative can help accelerate flood mitigation and resilience efforts statewide.
“Louisiana’s water systems are deeply connected to our economy, transportation network, communities, and way of life. The formation of the CURRENT Authority gives us an important opportunity to bring partners together around a shared vision for the future. This first meeting demonstrated a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning that will help position Louisiana for continued growth and opportunity,” said DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet.
Board members discussed the potential for coordinated investments that improve navigation, strengthen economic development, enhance community protection, and expand recreational access throughout Louisiana. Members also expressed appreciation for the collaborative and forward-looking tone established during the authority’s first meeting.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to move strategically and efficiently in identifying high-impact projects and partnerships capable of delivering long-term benefits to Louisiana residents, businesses, and communities.
With its inaugural meeting complete, the CURRENT Authority is positioned to begin building momentum as it develops a comprehensive, opportunity-driven vision for the future of Louisiana’s water resources through continued collaboration with federal, state, and local partners.
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