RESERVE, LA. — The Port of South Louisiana today celebrated the ribbon cutting of the Globalplex Dock Access Bridge, a major infrastructure investment that strengthens cargo reliability, improves operational efficiency, and expands the Port’s ability to handle heavy and oversized loads. The project is fully funded through the Federal Maritime Administration and the State of Louisiana’s Capital Outlay program.

The new dock access bridge provides a critical second connection between Globalplex’s main facility and its primary dock on the Mississippi River. This added redundancy ensures uninterrupted dock access and significantly enhances the facility’s capacity to support modern freight movement.

“This project represents a long-term investment in reliability, resilience, and regional economic growth,” said Julia Fisher Cormier, Executive Director of the Port of South Louisiana. “The Globalplex Dock Access Bridge strengthens our ability to serve existing and future customers, improves safety and efficiency for cargo movement, and demonstrates the Port’s continued commitment to building infrastructure that supports Louisiana’s role in global trade.”

“Building the Globalplex Access Bridge was a true team effort — one that required exceptional collaboration between our crews and the Port of South Louisiana every step of the way,” said RNGD’s Stephen Abadie. “We’re incredibly proud of what this project represents for the region’s infrastructure and the lasting impact it will have on commerce along the Mississippi.”

The new dock access bridge is designed to support 1,000 pounds per square foot, allowing fully loaded trailer trucks and heavy or oversized equipment to move safely and efficiently throughout the facility.

Currently, if the single existing dock access bridge becomes unavailable, the dock cannot be used and scheduled vessel calls must be diverted to other ports. The second bridge eliminates this vulnerability by providing continuous access to the dock, even if one bridge is out of service. It also improves efficiency by allowing trucks to operate in a circular traffic pattern, reducing congestion and speeding loading and unloading operations.

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What:

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the Port of South Louisiana’s GlobalplexDock Access Bridge, a major infrastructure project designed to improve
dock reliability, cargo efficiency and heavyload capacity for domestic and international commodities and cargo at Globalplex Intermodal Facility.

When:

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Where:

Port of South Louisiana, Globalplex Intermodal Terminal, 1720 LA Highway 44, Reserve, LA 70084

Who:

• Julia Fisher-Cormier, Executive Director, Port of South Louisiana
• Federal, State and Local officials
• Industry and project partners

Details:

The Port of South Louisiana will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the groundbreaking on the Globalplex Dock Access Bridge, a recently completed major infrastructure project. The new bridge provides a second access route between Port of South Louisiana’s main logistics and warehousing facility and its Mississippi River dock.

This project was made possible through both federal and state funding. Interview opportunities will be available following the ceremony.

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The Port of South Louisiana (PortSL) today announced that Julia Fisher-Cormier has been selected as the next Executive Director following a national search and a unanimous vote by the Board of Commissioners. Fisher‑Cormier returns to the Port after serving in Governor Jeff Landry’s administration as Deputy Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD).

“As a lifelong resident of the River Parishes, returning to the Port of South Louisiana as its leader is both an honor and a responsibility that I embrace,” said Julia Fisher-Cormier. “My passion for public service has deepened my commitment to build a more resilient and competitive infrastructure and logistics network that has historically been the backbone of our region. I look forward to working with our industry partners, key stakeholders, and communities to increase cargo, jobs, and investment across America’s most vital corridor.”

PortSL Commission Chairman Joey Murray welcomed the appointment: “Julia combines deep transportation experience with proven statewide leadership.. After a thorough national search, the Commission proudly voted unanimously to appoint a River Parish native as Executive Director. We are confident she will accelerate the Port’s strategic priorities and strengthen our position as an economic engine for Louisiana and America.”

Fisher‑Cormier’s selection follows the Commission’s executive search process and formal vote. She previously served as Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of South Louisiana before joining Governor Landry’s team at DOTD. Her portfolio has spanned infrastructure policy, intermodal logistics, economic development, and stakeholder engagement across public and private sectors.

About Julia Fisher-Cormier:

Julia Fisher Cormier was appointed Deputy Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development by Governor Landry in August 2025. In her role, she led the newly created Office of Transformation, managing and developing a long list of initiatives that cut red tape, modernize operations, and improve fiscal efficiency within one of the state’s largest agencies. She has also played a key role in improving interagency coordination across state government. Prior to her appointment as Deputy Secretary, she served as Commissioner of the Office of Multimodal Commerce, where she oversaw Louisiana’s multimodal transportation systems funding programs, including ports, waterways, rail, aviation, and trucking. Under Julia’s leadership, the office managed over $120 million in port and aviation infrastructure funding, advanced state-funded passenger rail routes, and obtained a federal planning grant for Louisiana’s 32 active ports.

She also serves as Chairman of the Louisiana Ports and Waterways Investment Commission, where she has fostered unprecedented collaboration among the five lower Mississippi River ports and driven the development of a State Strategic Port Plan, which is well underway. Julia sits on the Louisiana Board of International Commerce, working with Louisiana Economic Development (LED) to advance Louisiana’s global commerce strategy.

Julia returns to the Port of South Louisiana, where she previously served as Chief Commercial Officer. Her tenure saw the launch of over $1 billion in new foreign direct investment, retention and expansion of anchor tenants, and revitalization of the Globalplex Intermodal Facility. Her leadership helped reverse a decade-long decline in tonnage, achieving consecutive years of growth.

A third-generation resident of St. Charles Parish, Julia served as Councilwoman for District VII from 2012 to 2024, gaining expertise in public-private partnerships and regional development. She held leadership roles including Council Chair, Executive Board Member of the Police Jury Association, and Vice Chair of Public Safety and Justice for NACo, among others.

Civically engaged, Julia was President of United Way of St. Charles and held various board and committee roles.
Graduating from Hahnville High School and furthering her education at University of New Orleans, Julia has also completed Louisiana certified economic developer curriculum and held a property and casualty insurance license. Julia is a lifelong resident of Luling, LA.

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BATON ROUGE, La. – The five deep-water ports of the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) — Port of Greater Baton Rouge, Port of South Louisiana, Port of New Orleans, St. Bernard Port, Harbor and Terminal District, and Louisiana Gateway Port — have entered into a landmark agreement to engage Polaris Analytics & Consulting in the development of a collaborative marketing strategy aimed at increasing international trade, driving economic growth, attracting new business along with foreign direct investment and supporting Louisiana’s long-term economic development goals.

This strategic initiative, supported by Governor Jeff Landry and the Louisiana Ports and Waterways Investment Commission (LPWIC), will unify the strengths of one of the busiest and most diverse port complexes in the world, which moves over a half-billion tons annually, representing nearly 20% of all U.S. cargo volumes.

Polaris will lead a comprehensive scope of services that includes:

• Assessing the strategic positioning of five ports; both individually and collectively
• Stakeholder engagement and competitive benchmarking
• Development of a unified value proposition
• Strategic marketing plan and execution roadmap

The initiative builds on the March 2025 “Cargo Market Analysis and Strategy for the Lower Mississippi River Ports” report and aligns with the LPWIC and Louisiana Economic Development’s (LED) strategic goals.

“This collaboration among our Lower Mississippi River ports is a powerful example of the kind of regional alignment and focus outlined in our new strategic plan,” said Susan B. Bourgeois, Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. “By speaking with one voice and leveraging shared strengths, these ports are not only enhancing Louisiana’s global trade presence — they’re creating high-wage jobs, driving investment and positioning Louisiana to win on the world stage.”

“Spanning 256 miles of the mighty Mississippi, Louisiana’s five Lower River ports form an unrivaled economic powerhouse,” said Julia Fisher Cormier, Commissioner of Office of Multimodal Commerce. “Each port brings distinct strengths, but together they operate as a unified force — driving global trade, fueling industry and positioning America as a dominant contender in the international marketplace. This level of strategic collaboration is not just unprecedented — it’s the competitive edge Louisiana needs to transform our river corridor into one of the most formidable port complexes in the world.”

Each port’s leadership expressed strong support for the collaboration:

Jay Hardman, Executive Director of the Port of Greater Baton Rouge:

“This collaborative marketing strategy amongst Louisiana’s deepwater ports on the Mississippi River will harness the collective strength of these vital maritime hubs, amplifying their reach and appeal. By uniting resources, our ports can attract broader trade opportunities, enhance visibility, and position ourselves as a unified, efficient gateway for global commerce. Together, we create a more powerful, interconnected presence that drives economic growth not only for Louisiana but the entire United States.”

Brian Cox, Interim Executive Director of the Port of South Louisiana:

“This partnership marks a pivotal moment for the Port of South Louisiana and our fellow Lower Mississippi River ports. By aligning our strategic outreach, we’re not just marketing our capabilities –– we’re redefining how global industries perceive Louisiana’s logistics landscape. This initiative empowers us to present a cohesive, compelling narrative that reflects our shared strengths and future ambitions.”

Beth Branch, President and CEO of the Port of New Orleans:

“This Cooperative Endeavor Agreement represents more than a marketing initiative; it’s a shared commitment to collaboration, unity, and a long-term vision for Louisiana’s economic future. By aligning our efforts, we are speaking with one strong, unified voice to elevate Louisiana’s role in global trade and logistics. Together, we are proud to take this important step forward as partners.”

 

Drew Heaphy, Executive Director of St. Bernard Port, Harbor and Terminal District:

“As the only port that features the only slack water slip on the lower Mississippi, this study will give great insight into the role not only the St. Bernard Port plays, but also the roles of the other ports. Furthermore, transitioning from the original joint study to a marketing study will highlight the collaborative efforts of each port and illuminate what is involved in those efforts. The Lower Mississippi River ports are working together to move Louisiana forward.”

 

Charles Tillotson, Executive Director of the Louisiana Gateway Port:

“This unprecedented collaboration among the Lower Mississippi River ports marks a transformative step for Louisiana’s maritime future. At Louisiana Gateway Port, we are proud to be part of a unified marketing strategy that not only amplifies our individual strengths but also positions the entire region as a premier destination for global trade and investment. By aligning our marketing efforts, we’re sending a clear message to the world: Louisiana is open for business, united in purpose and ready to lead in international commerce.”

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LDEQ AND PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA TO ANNOUNCE ACTION TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT THE RIVER REGION’S CULTURE AND ECONOMIC FUTURE

What:

• Press Conference announcing positive news following action taken by the Governor’s Office, LDEQ, Elected Officials, Port of South Louisiana, and Local Residents and Stakeholders to preserve and protect the River Region’s culture and economic future.

When:

• Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 3:30 PM CST

Where:

• Port of South Louisiana Headquarters Commission Boardroom (3rd Floor) 1720 LA Highway 44, Reserve, LA 70084

Who:

• Secretary Aurelia Giacometto, Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality
• Paul Matthews, CEO of Port of South Louisiana
• Members of the Louisiana Congressional Delegation
• Louisiana Legislators
• River Region Elected Officials
• Economic Development Stakeholders
• River Parish Residents

This event is by Invitation Only and open to Credentialed Media
Please RSVP to Alexandra Hernandez (ahernandez@portsl.com) by 10:00 AM on February 18, 2025

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Aucoin, former Executive Director of the Port of South Louisiana.

Paul dedicated nine years to advancing the mission of the port, demonstrating unwavering leadership and commitment to our community and the economic growth of the region. His vision and passion for the maritime industry have left an indelible mark on the Port of South Louisiana and beyond.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Paul will be greatly missed but fondly remembered for his contributions and the positive impact he made on so many lives.

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Woodland Biofuels, Inc., announced a planned $1.35 billion investment at the Port of South Louisiana to establish one of the world’s largest renewable biofuels production facilities. The Toronto-based company would utilize waste biomass to produce sustainable biofuel used in transportation, heating and electricity generation.

If the project moves forward as outlined, the company expects to create 110 direct new jobs with an average annual salary of more than $90,000. Louisiana Economic Development estimates that the project would result in 259 indirect new jobs for a total of 369 potential new jobs in the Southeast Region. Woodlands Biofuels estimates that the project would create approximately 500 construction jobs.

“Woodlands Biofuels is set to become a signature part of Louisiana and GNO’s “all-of-the-above” energy strategy,” Greater New Orleans, Inc President and CEO Michael Hecht said. “$1.3 billion plus 110 new jobs plus renewable natural gas and hydrogen is a winning formula for everyone. Congratulations to the Port of South Louisiana; GNO, Inc. is glad to have been a partner for this exciting project.”

“With a multigenerational skilled workforce and abundant natural resources, there is no place in the world better positioned to help energy companies grow and thrive,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “Woodland Biofuels’ project would bring high-paying jobs to the great people of St. John the Baptist Parish for years to come. The state looks forward to working with the company to bring this project to completion.”

The new facility, to be located at the Globalplex multimodal facility at the Port of South Louisiana, would include the largest renewable natural gas production plant in the world, according to the company. It expects to permanently remove hundreds of thousands of tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually and store it safely underground at a carbon sequestration site to be determined at a later date.

“Woodland is thrilled to announce that we plan to build, right here at the Port of South Louisiana, the world’s largest carbon-negative RNG facility,” Woodland Biofuels CEO Greg Nuttall said. “Our sustainable biofuel plant will be an economic driver for St. John Parish and beyond. We look forward to establishing deep ties with the local community, and drawing on the existing world-class workforce and utilizing Louisiana’s exceptional infrastructure to execute on our project.”

A front-end engineering design (FEED) study for the site is anticipated to be finalized by the second quarter of 2025, with a final investment decision expected by the end of next year. Commercial operations for the first phase of the project – the renewable natural gas production plant – are projected to start in 2028.

“Port of South Louisiana is the second ranked port in the nation for energy transfer,” Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews said. “This significant investment by Woodland Biofuels to construct the world’s largest carbon negative renewable natural gas plant and a large-scale green hydrogen facility at our Globalplex Intermodal Terminal proves that PortSL and the state of Louisiana are leading the way in diversifying our energy industry, which will result in the creation of hundreds of high-paying jobs for River Region families.”

To support the project in Reserve, LED offered Woodland Biofuels a competitive incentives package that includes a $10 million performance-based grant for infrastructure improvements and the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs.

Register here to be notified about Woodland Biofuels job opportunities, hiring events and news updates.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) celebrated two federal awards he championed for infrastructure investments in the River Parishes. Congressman Carter personally selected both the Port of South Louisiana and the Town of Lutcher to receive $500,000 each as a part of his FY 2024 Community Project Funding (CPF) requests. He was joined at the Port of South Louisiana today by Chief Executive Officer Paul Matthews, Mayor Patrick St. Pierre, and other local elected officials.

“I am excited to announce two critical grants that will significantly improve our infrastructure, grow our economy, and enhance the quality of life for all residents in the River Parishes,” said Rep. Carter. “These awards are not just important for the communities here but also for the entire nation that depends on this region to export our grain, move imports up the river, and refine our energy. I promise to keep fighting for investments that bring tangible benefits to the River Parishes. Together, we will build the infrastructure we need, protect our homes, and create opportunities for generations to come.”

The Port South Louisiana will receive $500,000 for the Master Drainage Plan to clean and widen ditches, upgrade drainage infrastructure, and create detention ponds to manage stormwater and prevent flooding.

King Avenue, a major access point in the Town of Lutcher, faces high traffic due to its proximity to a densely populated apartment complex and a school, with frequent pedestrian, truck, and school bus use. Lutcher will receive $500,000 to build a new roadway to improve access and address potential flooding issues.

“Congressman Troy Carter’s unwavering support for the Port of South Louisiana and this crucial funding for the Port’s master drainage project exemplify his commitment to both regional infrastructure and economic growth,” said PortSL CEO Paul Matthews.” His leadership ensures that Louisiana’s largest tonnage port, which connects 31 states to the world, remains a vital hub of international commerce while safeguarding our local community from potential flooding, securing a brighter and more prosperous future for River Region families.”

“Congressman Troy Carter’s support has made a dramatic impact on the infrastructure in the Town of Lutcher; we would like to express our sincere gratitude to him and his professional staff,” said Patrick St. Pierre, Mayor Town of Lutcher.

The post Congressman Carter Praises Infrastructure Investments in the River Parishes appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

For the past two years, PortSL has focused on delivering growth and change, which has resulted in our Port consecutively regaining tonnage for the first time in nearly a decade, generating the Port’s highest revenue in history and moving from fourth to rank #2 in US Foreign Trade Zone activity and value.

Our team remains laser-focused, and this momentum will continue as we work to successfully attract new investments from industry and secure funding from our state and federal partners.

With that in mind, I want to share a couple of changes in our organization that will keep this momentum going. They are familiar faces moving into new roles.

Tamara Kennedy (tkennedy@portsl.com) will move into the role of Chief of Staff. For nearly a decade, she has served as PortSL’s Director of Human Resources. As Chief of Staff, Tamara will oversee Human Resources,  Executive Team efficiency and performance, and serve as staff liaison and strategic advisor to our CEO.

Micah Cormier (mcormier@portsl.com) is our Director of Business Development & External Affairs. He previously served as Director of Communications. In his new role, Micah will lead the development of Port properties, serve as a liaison to business and industry partners, oversee communications and marketing, and strengthen governmental and community relations.

Business and industry in the River Parishes have created wealth and opportunity for countless Louisiana families and PortSL is proud to be home of the world’s best workforce.

Our team remains committed to collaborating with all of our tenants and partners as you look to expand and grow. Our door is always open to anyone who wants invest in PortSL. We know you all recognize that we are a better way to cargo!

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This week Inland River Ports and Terminals’ We Work the Waterways hosted an immersive interaction to educate high school students in the area the importance of waterborne transportation and the diversity of career paths available on the waterways.

Held at The Port of South Louisiana, and Cargill, Inc. The event hosted hundreds of high school students from St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding areas who experienced visually engaging presentations at The Port of South Louisiana and immersive tours at Cargill, Inc.

We Work the Waterways brings the maritime industry to students; through education, hands-on learning and engagement opportunities with maritime representatives. Students can experience firsthand maritime skills such as line throwing and knot tying. Students will also learn more about commodities shipped on the Mississippi river and the lifelong career paths the waterways have to offer.

We Work the Waterways’ organization’s career development program director Errin Howard states “In this role, I will be working to expand IRPT’s career opportunities initiative into a career development program,” Howard said in a message to supporters. “IRPT’s Career Development Program, ‘We Work the Waterways,’ focuses on four things: promote, market, encourage and education.”

“For decades, Louisiana’s strategic location on the Mississippi River has attracted industry and businesses that have created thousands of jobs for River Parish families,” said PortSL CEO Paul Matthews. “Port of South Louisiana is proud to once again host this spectacular event that exposes Louisiana high school students to high paying jobs and career paths that are available to them upon graduation. We Work the Waterways opens doors to create generational wealth for families, helps to build a skilled workforce for industry thatkeeps our kids right here at home in Louisiana.”

Billie Dinvaut-Duncan, Coordinator of Curriculum & Assessment said “ I feel that career
exploration events like “We Work the Waterways Program at the Port of South Louisiana” allow
students to enhance their workplace knowledge and build career awareness. It definitelyconnects academics to the workforce. It also allows students the opportunity to ask questionsand observe the workforce in action.”

Event partners include AccuTRANS, American Barge Line, Associated Terminals, Cargill,Cooper Consolidated, Crescent Towing, Ingram Barge Company, Louisiana CAT, Open Waters,Turn Services, Mississippi Valley Trade and Transport Council, Marquette Transportation, WoodResources LLC, Consortium for Public Education, Furgo USA, Women In Maritime Operations,Port of South Louisiana and Cargill, Inc..

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