St. John the Baptist Parish Unveils Comprehensive Drainage Master Plan

Published on May 20, 2025

St. John the Baptist Parish Unveils Comprehensive Drainage Master Plan

Most detailed drainage planning effort in decades prioritizes long-term flood protection and infrastructure improvements

St. John the Baptist Parish has unveiled its new Drainage Master Plan, a major milestone in the Parish’s ongoing efforts to address widespread drainage challenges and reduce flood risks.This plan is designed to protect homes and businesses across St. John Parish from worsening flood threats.

Spearheaded by Parish President Jaclyn Hotard, the plan takes a data-driven, community-focused approach to infrastructure improvement. This plan evaluates parish-wide drainage infrastructure, from culverts to canals, identifying gaps and outlining solutions. It also complements key ongoing efforts, such as canal excavations through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the cleaning of culverts along Airline Highway from parish line to parish line. Developed using advanced hydraulic and hydrologic modeling, the plan outlines actionable projects to improve drainage efficiency while avoiding negative impacts on neighboring areas. Several priority projects are already underway, with more scheduled for implementation.

“We’re working hand in hand with residents in a clear and transparent way,” said Parish President Jaclyn Hotard. “This isn’t just a study—it’s a plan backed by real projects, real solutions, and real action. It represents our long-term commitment to protecting homes, businesses, and families in every corner of St. John Parish.” A key feature of the plan is its identification of local flood risks and its recommendation of targeted improvements to reduce or eliminate those risks. Public input remains an important part of the process as the plan evolves.

Members of the Parish Council voiced strong support for the initiative. “This plan gives us a clear roadmap—not only to fix current drainage problems, but to prevent future ones,” said Councilmember Michael Wright. “It’s the kind of long-term, parishwide planning our residents have asked for and deserve.” “This plan provides smart, workable solutions and a clear path forward,” said Councilmember Lennix Madere. “It’s an investment that strengthens the future of our parish.”

Regional agencies also praised the Parish’s forward-thinking leadership. “The Drainage Master Plan developed by St. John the Baptist Parish is a vital complement to transformative projects like the River Reintroduction into the Maurepas Swamp and the West Shore Lake Pontchartrain hurricane protection system,” said Brad Miller, Project Manager with the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA). “Together, these efforts are delivering real, lasting solutions to reduce flood risk, restore natural ecosystems, and strengthen community resilience. CPRA applauds the Parish for its forward-thinking, science-based approach that aligns seamlessly with our regional restoration goals.”

This plan represents the most comprehensive drainage strategy developed in St. John the Baptist Parish in decades and will serve as a guiding resource for future flood protection and infrastructure planning. Residents can follow project updates as implementation moves forward at sjbparish.gov. ###