News

Churchill Business & Technology Park on Track

Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) today marked the beginning of a new phase of development at Churchill Technology & Business Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

The highly anticipated project is the largest development of its kind in the metropolitan New Orleans area. Spanning a total of 500 acres, the park’s initial 40 acres have already been cleared, with utilities, water systems and streets in place. Construction on two office buildings will begin later this year.

Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Stephen Moret said, “We are delighted that JEDCO has made the Churchill Business and Technology Park a priority and we’re very pleased by the amount of progress that has already been made. This project will represent a significant contribution to economic development in Jefferson Parish and the New Orleans region. LED looks forward to helping market this exciting new business park.”

With substantial construction projects in place, Jefferson officials are now stepping up their marketing campaign to lure expanding or relocating businesses to Churchill.

Parish President Aaron Broussard said that while Churchill was delayed by Hurricane Katrina, it is now a tangible example that Jefferson Parish has not only recovered but is now an economic force for the entire region.

“Even in the aftermath of Hurricane Gustav, we can still celebrate the progress of Churchill Technology & Business Park because of our solid infrastructure and commitment of our Parish,” Broussard said. “Gustav showed us that our flood protection systems are improving and our reaction time is becoming more streamlined. The majority of our population and business centers were back to normal in less than one week following the storm.”

Churchill’s proximity to the airport, the Mississippi River, and to multiple rail lines and interstates makes it an ideal location for distribution services, warehouses and manufacturing facilities. The park’s extensive landscaping and green space make it an appealing home for high-end office space or headquarters facilities.

The layout of the campus offers flexibility for new construction. Churchill is divided into major parcels, rather than subdivided lots, and can accommodate a variety of businesses needs.

“Because Jefferson Parish is already home to a robust and diverse complement of business and industry, companies that locate in Churchill have ample opportunities to leverage resources with economic sectors such as international trade, defense manufacturing, transportation, energy, petrochemicals, and new media,” said JEDCO COO Gaye Frederic, who manages the Churchill project. “Also, the parish’s history of cooperation among business, governmental, educational and civic interest groups provide a unique foundation upon which resident businesses can expand.”

While Churchill offers a tranquil setting in which to work, its proximity to New Orleans also provides ample opportunities for play. Employees can enjoy cultural offerings of neighboring New Orleans, boundless recreation activities along the Gulf Coast and a family-oriented atmosphere within Jefferson Parish.

Largely unscathed by Hurricane Katrina, the West Bank of Jefferson has experienced tremendous growth over the last few years, providing a range of services and amenities including the Tournament Players Club Golf Course, the Alario Center, Bayou Segnette Sports Complex and Bayou Segnette State Park. Outstanding public and private schools and reasonable housing market add to the area’s appeal.