SIMMESPORT, La. — The Port of Avoyelles has been awarded $4 million in federal funding to develop a new Multimodal Truck-to-Barge Grain Transfer Facility in Simmesport, Louisiana, a project expected to strengthen the region’s agricultural economy and improve access to national and international markets.
The funding was announced October 27, 2026, by the U.S. Department of Transportation as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), administered by the Maritime Administration.
The federal program made approximately $497.9 million available nationwide to modernize port infrastructure, improve freight transportation and strengthen supply chains, with dedicated funding opportunities for smaller ports serving rural communities.
The planned facility will allow agricultural commodities to move more efficiently between trucks and barges, improving transportation options for farmers and producers throughout Central Louisiana. Officials say the investment will also help position Avoyelles Parish for future industrial development, business expansion and job creation.
Chris Masingill, President and CEO of Louisiana Central, praised the funding announcement and the partnerships that helped secure the investment.
“Our ports are critical economic assets that connect Central Louisiana’s agricultural producers and industries to markets across the country and beyond,” Masingill said. “This $4 million investment will strengthen that connection and enhance Avoyelles Parish’s competitiveness for future economic opportunities.”
Masingill also recognized State Representative Daryl Deshotel, the Avoyelles Parish Port Commission and Port Director Obie Ryland for their leadership and persistence in advancing the project.
Deshotel, who represents Louisiana House District 28, emphasized the importance of cooperation in securing the funding.
“Teamwork is what it took to bring this project to fruition, and it’s that same spirit of cooperation that will continue to move Avoyelles Parish forward,” Deshotel said. “But what excites me most is that this is just the beginning!”
Louisiana Central also acknowledged the efforts of Port Commission Chairman Jason Bordelon, Vice Chairman Scott Williams, Treasurer Andre Webb, and Commissioners Patrick Deshotels and Chris Lacour.
Once developed, the grain transfer facility is expected to improve the connection between highway and waterway transportation, potentially lowering shipping barriers and expanding market opportunities for regional agricultural producers.
Louisiana Central says it will continue working with local, state, and federal partners to build on the investment and encourage long-term economic growth throughout Avoyelles Parish and Central Louisiana.
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