| Work Detail |
Tallulah Mayor Paxton Branch asked Louisiana Sen. David Vitter on Tuesday for help launching an industrial park project that he predicts could bring as many as 1,000 jobs to the city. The $45 million proposal centers on the Tallulah Industrial Parkway Project on 250 acres of city-owned land. City officials said they want to take advantage of the city’s location, including its proximity to the Mississippi River and I-20. “Transportation is growing stronger and stronger everyday - moving goods back and forth,’’ Branch told Vitter on the first day lawmakers were back in Washington after their summer recess. “I think it would be ideal if we had it in the city of Tallulah. That way we can increase (jobs in) the most poverty-stricken area along the Delta. Vitter, chairman of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, volunteered assistance from his staffers to help city officials tap federal economic programs, including some under the Transportation Department. Vitter noted that Congress has banned the practice of earmarking — or inserting money into spending bills for special projects in lawmakers’ home states and districts. But he said his office can help city officials understand and navigate the federal process. “You all just lay out broadly… what you’re talking about and have (staff members) brainstorm with you about what the right targets would be,’’ he told the officials. Branch also met Tuesday with Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy and Rep. Ralph Abraham. City officials hope to start construction in the fall of 2017. Branch and other advocates for the industrial park, including James Smith, director of economic development in Rayville, La., said the project could provide a much-needed economic boost for the city, which is located in Madison Parish, the poorest parish in the state. Officials said the unemployment rate there is 40 percent and nearly 39 percent of residents live below the poverty line. Smith said supporters also are relying on a workforce training program, which will be implemented in local schools, to supply skilled workers for potential jobs. “We will have a workforce,’’ said Smith, who created the Delta Work Ready Academy. “So we’re going to be fine. He said Louisiana does not have enough skilled workers. A skilled workforce is key to attracting businesses, Smith said. Vitter urged officials to get a better sense of what companies might want “on the front end'''' before they start building. “My suggestion is to ask them exactly what they need, he said. City officials said possibilities include big-box store distribution centers. |
