MONROE, LA (AP) — Two state senators say they're confident they will secure $1.5 million that will unlock $10 million in federal funds to raise the Mississippi River levee in Tensas Parish.
State Sens. Neil Riser and Francis Thompson tell The News-Star’s Greg Hilburn they have assurances from Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Sherri LeBas the money will be made available, mostly through emergency funding.
Fifth Louisiana Levee District President Reynold Minsky said Thursday the $10 million in federal funds became available in February, but he needs a $1.5 million state match to secure rights of way for the project.
The money would fund a project to raise 4.5 miles of levee by 6 feet in Tensas Parish.
