Sen. Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today announced a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Agency to the Water Institute of the Gulf for the development of a Lower Mississippi River SmartPort & Resilience Center (SmartPort). This EDA grant, to be matched with $1.4 million in state funds and $26,000 in local funds, is expected to create 31 jobs, retain 64 jobs, and generate $2 million in private investment.
“With this grant funding, SmartPort is another step closer to reality,” said Dr. Cassidy. “The Gulf plays a critical role in maritime commerce and this collaborative partnership will improve and streamline operations, and ultimately support future job opportunities along the Mississippi River.”