Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.6 Million to Provide Flood-Resilient Infrastructure at the Marine Operations Center in South-Central Louisiana

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.6 million grant to the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium, Chauvin, Louisiana, to help build flood-resilient infrastructure at the new Marine Operations Center in support of important coastal and marine system research. The EDA grant, to be matched with $400,000 in local funds, is expected to create 45 jobs and generate $18 million in private investment.

“President Trump is working every day to improve our country’s infrastructure, which in turn facilitates job creation and fosters innovation,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “This project will provide the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium with the resilient infrastructure needed to support research and training at its new Marine Operation Center.”

“EDA is proud to partner with the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium to enhance their capabilities and scientific contributions,” said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. “This infrastructure project, to include bulkhead improvements, will allow researchers to quickly access water vessels, equipment, and supplies, as well as develop programs with practical applications in marine technologies.”

“The Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium conducts important marine system research along our state’s coast,” said Senator John Kennedy. “It’s great to see this EDA grant build essential flood-resistant infrastructure, while creating jobs and supporting the economy.”

“I applaud the Trump Administration for providing the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) with funding to strengthen its vital research efforts along coastal Louisiana and in the Gulf of Mexico,” said Congressman Steve Scalise (LA-01). “This funding will help LUMCON continue its important work for Louisiana’s coastal wetlands and our marine ecosystems.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the South Central Planning and Development Commission, which EDA funds to help bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.