CEO’S LOG

It’s the summer of opportunity at the Port of South Louisiana. We’ve seen continued growth in tonnage over the first quarter, moving 4.5 million short tons of cargo than the quarter before. As the nation’s leading grain exporter and a hub for energy transfer, the world continues to look to PortSL, especially during the continued conflict with Russia and Ukraine. Feeding and fueling the world, while simultaneously driving our state and nation’s economy, is what we focus on everyday at the Port of South Louisiana. Our team is in constant contact with stakeholders and officials to foster growth and opportunity.

In an ever-changing landscape, being at the forefront with new technologies is a top priority for our Port. In the area of cybersecurity, we continue to invest in upgrading our critical infrastructure to ensure that PortSL and the commerce that occurs in our jurisdiction is protected. In this issue, you will read about the Lower Mississippi River SmartPort and Resilience Center that is providing real-time data on water depths and sedimentation to shippers. You’ll also read about our grant funding to construct the nation’s first hydrogen fueling barge, which will provide a zero-carbon fuel source for vessels in the years to come.

PortSL’s Executive Regional Airport continues to garner attention from aviation enthusiasts and business travelers. Last year, we issued a master plan that will add another level of modality to the Port’s intermodal capabilities. By expanding our runway by 1,500 feet, we see the ability to attract and move cargo via air. As a reliever airport to area airports currently moving cargo, PortSL’s Executive Regional Airport will attract investment from companies looking to improve shipping routes and avoid the supply chain issues we have experienced in the past.

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Regionally, we are working with the local governments and officials in the River Parishes and ensuring that Port is a community partner supporting families and small businesses. We have met with officials at every level to make the new I-10 Reserve Exit a reality. This will provide motorists and truckers a direct route to our Globalplex facility and Executive Regional Airport and it will ease truck traffic from neighboring LaPlace. Beating the Louisiana heat can be tough. In this issue, you’ll read about how our area leaders are making a “splash” and prioritizing the quality of life for families to enjoy.

There is no “Summer Break” at PortSL. I’m extremely proud and blessed to lead a team of talented people who show up to work everyday and are helping our Port reach new heights. As always, we stand ready to partner with anyone looking to do business at Port of South Louisiana. We are A BETTER WAY TO CARGO.

Paul Matthews

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