Federal Permitting Process

The new terminal layout includes more space between neighborhoods and the terminal.

We will conduct detailed studies to understand potential impacts to noise, light, and traffic. Based on the results, we will incorporate project features to lessen impacts. This could include landscaping, sound walls, etc.

We are conducting detailed air quality studies to understand potential impacts. The studies look beyond the boundaries of the terminal. We will consider existing refineries and other potential future developments in the area to understand the collective impacts of the terminal and these other refineries and developments.

We, along with our private partners, are making major investments in green technologies to limit emissions. This includes:

• Shore power
• Electric vehicles and equipment
• Container-on-barge services
• Clean TRIP engine replacement

We are working with the Regional Planning Commission and the Department of Transportation and Development to conduct further traffic studies. Traffic studies are analyzing current and future traffic trends.

The new terminal layout includes:

• An overpass to avoid a rail crossing
• St. Bernard Hwy remaining near the levee
• Support for the design and construction of the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor.

A Phase I cultural resource study has already been completed. No significant archaeological resources, historical, or cultural resources were found at the proposed site and no tribal objections have been submitted to the U.S. Army Corps.

We are conducting further cultural resource studies.

The new terminal layout keeps the St. Bernard Highway near its current route.

We are analyzing the project’s potential impacts on wetlands and developing a mitigation plan in accordance with federal regulations.

Port NOLA will fully mitigate all impacts to wetlands within the watershed, as required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in accordance with federal regulations.

We studied other potential locations, and Violet is the best fit because of:

• Naturally deep water at the dock
• Access to four interstates
• Access to six Class-I rail connections
• 100-year level hurricane protection
• Excellent waterside navigation
• No height restrictions for ships, such as bridges

We are studying potential impacts on recreational and tourist activities. The new terminal layout includes:

• Space for a bike and pedestrian path (if desired by the parish)
• Relocation of the Violet playground.

We are completing biological assessments to understand the project’s impacts on threatened and endangered species and their habitats.

We are developing a stormwater management plan and conducting drainage and flood hazard analyses. The new terminal layout includes:

• A new drainage canal to the 40-Arpent Canal
• A new drainage pump station on the 40-Arpent Canal

The new drainage system will not burden the existing Violet drainage system.

An initial navigation study has already been completed. Violet was selected for its deep water and other characteristics that make it safe for large ships to navigate.

We are further analyzing the potential impacts of terminal operations on Mississippi River navigation.