Gov. Elect John Bel Edwards Supports Light Rail Between New Orleans and Baton Rouge

Gov.-elect John Bel Edwards wants to start working with federal officials to establish a passenger rail line between New Orleans and Baton Rouge -- a project Gov. Bobby Jindal refused to support.

"I am going to do everything I can to partner with folks in Washington to make sure that as soon as possible we can pursue light rail," said Edwards at a New Orleans Chamber of Commerce lunch meeting Friday (Dec. 18).

The comment drew lots of applause from the business-oriented crowd. Industry leaders and local officials in New Orleans, Baton Rouge and several other local parishes have wanted to pursue passenger rail for years. But the federal government wouldn't consider putting funding toward the project because of Jindal's opposition to the idea.

Edwards -- like many in the business community -- believes the rail project would boost economic development in South Louisiana. Instead of having Baton Rouge and New Orleans compete for business entities, the two cities would be connected. Potential employers wouldn't have to choose between one or the other, according to rail supporters.

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