NEW ORLEANS, LA - Councilmembers JP Morrell and Helena Moreno are standing with the Lower 9th Ward community and stating their opposition to the Alabo Street Grain Terminal through a City Council resolution that will be heard at next week’s meeting. Under the agreement made between the Port of New Orleans and Sunrise Foods International,
negotiated without any community input, a 10-car train would transport grain through residential neighborhoods with little plans for pest and dust mitigation. Neighbors have expressed concerns regarding the potential negative impacts of the Alabo Street Sunrise Food grain terminal, including but not limited to: environmental concerns, traffic and safety issues, community displacement, and lack of community engagement.
The resolution expresses the need for Sunrise Foods to move to an alternative location.
“I am alarmed by the lack of community outreach and collaboration surrounding the Alabo Street Grain Terminal, and I share the community’s concerns,” said Council President JP Morrell. “There are far too many health concerns and unanswered questions for this project to move forward as scheduled at this location. I heavily encourage all state and federal partners to take a stronger stance on this project that would significantly impact the daily life of Lower Ninth Ward residents.”
“Sunrise Foods would benefit from moving to an alternative site where a neighborhood wouldn’t be disrupted and they could be supported,” said Council Vice President Helena Moreno. Neighborhoods are not just concerned, but scared about what this project could do to their community and well-being. I urge port officials to think outside the box to find another option for this project.”
In June 2024, the Port of New Orleans struck a deal with Sunrise Foods to operate a grain terminal and train at the Alabo Street Wharf in the Lower Ninth Ward. Neighbors had no opportunity to provide input on the project, which poses significant risks to the community, including pests, dust, and noise pollution. Neither the Port nor Sunrise Foods has released any plans to help mitigate the health and environmental concerns of Lower Ninth Ward residents.
While the City Council has no legal authority over port operations, councilmembers believe it is imperative that their position is clear and the Port board has the opportunity to align with the leadership of the city.
The resolution will be heard at the full council meeting on September 11th.
Read the resolution here.