Louisiana finds solution for flooding

Louisiana hopes it’s found a solution to street flooding.
The city plans to upgrade a culvert along the Kansas City Southern railroad tracks on the south side of town.
The move will divert Mississippi River floodwaters so that they don’t inundate Highway 79 and several side streets.
“We will eliminate flooding in commercial and residential areas,” said city administrator Bob Jenne.
Estimated cost of the project is $42,000. The city would fund 25 percent and seek a state grant to pay the rest.
Jenne said the railroad, which owns the culvert property, has agreed to the plan.
Merchants in the area are delighted. When Noix Creek and Town Branch back up, it’s tough to get around.
Three places were closed or lost business because of high water recently, and motorists had to detour around several flooded side streets.
Jim Gott, co-owner with his wife, Dottye, of Louisiana Laundromat and Gift Shop, had feared the water would cause more damage.
“Anything that can help us, we’ll be happy,” Gott said. “We’re very fortunate the water didn’t get in the building.”