WBIA Infrastructure Committee Receives Major Project Updates from Jefferson Parish

The WBIA Infrastructure Committee, chaired by Jon Cerruti, recently convened at Leaaf Environmental in Gretna for an informative discussion on critical infrastructure investments and transportation projects shaping the future of the West Bank. Committee members and guests heard a comprehensive presentation fromMark Drewes, Chief Operating Officer for Jefferson Parish, who provided updates on the Parish’s ongoing efforts to modernize aging water, sewer, drainage, and transportation infrastructure. Drewes highlighted the significant progress being made through Jefferson Parish’s long-term capital improvement programs, including major investments in water and sewer system upgrades, roadway improvements, drainage enhancements, and regional transportation initiatives. Click Here for Full Presentation

Particular attention was given to two projects of great importance to the West Bank business community: thePeters Road Bridge and Extension Project and theHarvey Boulevard Extension. Drewes reported that the Harvey Boulevard Extension, which will create a new roadway connection between Peters Road and Manhattan Boulevard, has completed final design, right-of-way acquisition, and permitting, with construction bids scheduled for July 2026. He also shared updates on the Peters Road Bridge and Extension Project, a transformative regional transportation initiative that will create a direct connection between Jefferson and Plaquemines Parishes while improving freight mobility, economic development opportunities, and hurricane evacuation routes. The project continues to advance through design and funding phases, with key components expected to move forward in the coming year.

WBIA appreciates the leadership of Chairman Jon Cerruti and the Parish team for keeping members informed about infrastructure investments that will strengthen regional connectivity, support business growth, and improve quality of life throughout the West Bank.

WBIA members interested in joining the Infrastructure Committee should email Christy@wbianola.com to be added to the committee list.

Laissez les bons temps rouler! 

We had an incredible time at this year’s WBIA Crawfish Boil! Thank you to everyone who came out and made it such a fun and memorable event. A very special thank you to Barbara Rutledge of Banner Chevrolet and Carl Hebert of Uniti Fiber for their hard work and leadership in bringing this event together. It truly would not happen without your dedication. And of course, thank you to our sponsors for your continued support. From perfect weather to great company, delicious crawfish, and jambalaya, it was a great day all around. We appreciate our WBIA community and look forward to seeing you at the next event!

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WBIA November Member Meeting

A big thank you to Commissioner Tim Temple for taking the time to speak with our members and for giving us a clear, honest look at the insurance landscape in Louisiana. His insight was exactly what our community needed.

We also want to extend our appreciation to Bill Bubrig with HUB and Courtney Kattengell with TCK Realty for serving on the panel and sharing the real, on-the-ground challenges that residents and businesses are facing every day. Their perspectives grounded the conversation in the realities our region is dealing with.

And to our members — thank you for showing up in force. The turnout was strong and the engagement in the room made it clear that this issue matters to all of us. Your presence and participation are what make these discussions meaningful.

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