The New Orleans-owned airport, located in Kenner and straddling Jefferson and St. Charles Parishes could have regional control if a business-backed bill passes in the state legislature. Its sale to the state could boots local business.

Under the plan, the city would transfer ownership to the state.

WWL

"I think what people understand if you've ever traveled to Atlanta or Orlando or Charlotte is that our airport is second rate,” Jim Tucker, La. House Speaker, said. “It is constricted because of both land and politics and finance.”

Over the years, the airport has developed a reputation as patronage-rich – a cash cow for the city.  But, while other Southern airports became major hubs, New Orleans never developed into one.

Speaker Tucker said the state is in a better position with regional support to improve the airport and capture direct flights.

“The state will have a better opportunity to expand, have greater resources available and work with the FAA on building a truly regional facility,” Tucker said.

New Orleans would get a half of a billion dollars and use the money to jump start the rebuilding effort.  The project include a new City Hall, improvements to the riverfront, a new sports and entertainment district near the Superdome and a new biomedical corridor along Canal Street.

“That funding source will attract some private dollars to it and really get us on our feet and gets some projects moving,” City Council President Arnie Fielkow said.

Jefferson Parish leader are excited to hear more about the plan, which would finally give them a seat at the table.  “I personally am in favor of it,” Jefferson Parish Council Chairman John Young said. “I think it's a win, win for all the parishes involved. I think it provides another area for regional cooperation.”

There are, however, a few stinking points in the deal.  One is price, and Mayor C. Ray Nagin wants New Orleans to retain 40 percent control of the board, but that seems unlikely. 

New Orleans would get two seats on the nine member board, Jefferson Parish would get two, St. Charles Parish would get one and the governor would have the ability to appoint four at-large.

State lawmakers could take the bill up as early as next week.