Mitch Landrieu: “by implementing such a program we will enhance our region's national economic competitiveness, especially in our natural…”

“by implementing such a program we will enhance our region's national economic competitiveness, especially in our natural resource sector which has been the backbone of our economy; contribute to the revitalization and growth of both suburban and central city business engaged in global trade; provide new opportunities for job creation throughout metropolitan and rural areas; and promote national efficiency. With hundreds of major navigable waterways, ports and rail systems throughout Louisiana, we are favored by many in the Midwest and Eastern United States as the gateway to the Southern Hemisphere. Louisiana is of vital importance to the United States as such a gateway and very supportive of additional federal funding to better connect their water, rail and transportation systems that are vital to enhancing international trading opportunities for our nation. While I understand that the managers of S. 1173 will not include additional funding amendments in this bill, such as the one Senator Breaux and I propose, I hope to work on this proposal with Senate leaders during conference with the House to promote intermodalism in those places where we can gain the greatest national benefit.”