The Port of New Orleans continues to make significant progress toward the design and development of the $1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal (LIT) project. The project, located in Violet, LA, is the largest public economic development project in the state and continues to gain major support from global industry partners and the state and federal governments. 

Earlier this month, Port NOLA wrapped up a series of three open house events for the LIT project. These events provided an opportunity for Violet and greater St. Bernard Parish residents and business leaders to gather information and engage with experts about the project. 

Participants were also able to connect with various partners to learn about current and future procurement, workforce and education pathways. Participating partners were:

• Port NOLA HR
• Port NOLA Procurement
• Harbor Police Department
• Kiewit International
• International Longshoremen's Association and West Gulf Maritime Association
• Nunez Community College

Port NOLA and partners connected with hundreds of St. Bernard residents throughout the three nights. This was the third set (nine events in total) of community open houses hosted by Port NOLA since the inception of the LIT project. 



For those unable to attend, an online version of the open house will be available on our Louisiana International Terminal website throughout the summer. 

Permitted Surcharge Testing Now Underway

The LIT project is in the planning and design phase.

Part of that process involves making sure that we have a strong foundation on which to build. Our soil studies have given us valuable insight and a path forward. The next step in the development process is to validate those studies by performing different field tests. The first will be a surcharge test.

WHAT IS SURCHARGING?

Surcharging is a proven process that helps the ground settle faster. Here's how it works: 

1. The two test sites and access road will be cleared and prepared. 
2. At each site, a sand mound of approximately 20' high will be constructed. 
3. Then gravity will do the work. The weight of the sand will push down the soil underneath and consolidate the soil.

The surcharge testing process includes two small areas (identified above) in the proposed terminal footprint. Most of this site work is anticipated to last ten months. 

WHAT TO EXPECT

Crews will be on-site weekly, Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., while constructing the two test sites and access road; Saturdays will be weather-related makeup days. Potential impacts include increased truck traffic in the area as well as some noise. 

We invite you to learn more about the Louisiana International Terminal by visiting our website at louisianainternationalterminal.com or our Community Connection Office in Violet. We will be in our Violet office on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 AM - 4:30 PM and are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays by virtual or in-person appointment. To make an appointment with our team, email us at litinfo@portnola.com or call (504)528-3227.

Thank you,

Kylie Mills

Communications and Community Engagement Manager