Franklin Canal flood structure dedicated Thurs.

Dozens of community members and other stakeholders were on hand yesterday in Franklin for the dedication of a facility that should provide protection in the future against flooding in the area.
The Philip Luke Memorial Canal Closure, named after a former levee commission member, was constructed as part of a larger, parish wide effort to avoid the devastating flooding that occurred in the area after hurricanes such as Rita and Ike.
Before the red ribbon was cut dedicating the facility, several of those in attendance took a few moments to thank those who were instrumental in the project’s success.
Tim Matte, Executive Director of the St. Mary Parish Levee District, said the new pump station and canal closure should help mitigate the conditions that accompany major storms that will inevitably strike the area in the future.
“Storm surges and high tides can move into the Franklin Canal and threaten homes on either side of the canal,” Matte said. “The purpose of this structure is to block the canal and keep that storm surge from entering into the community. This pump station was another piece of the puzzle.”
Matte said the combination of the canal closure and the new pump station would not only keep the water at bay but would provide a permanent means to remove water once the storm has passed.
“When we do have to operate this flood gate, we need to be able to pump the water out and keep this drainage working,” Matte said. “During the past two hurricane seasons, we have done that with temporary pumps. Now, with the completed construction of this structure, we don’t have to worry about any temporary operations. We are in much, much better shape.”
Bill Hidalgo, President of the St. Mary Parish Levee District, called the occasion “a great day for St. Mary Parish.” Hidalgo also introduced Louisiana State Representative Sam Jones, Dist. 50, who he credited with finding the funding for the Franklin Canal project. Jones, who was mayor of Franklin for 22 years, said the extra protection for the community was very personal for him.
“This levee district has outperformed all of our expectations,” Jones said. “They didn’t have to start from zero to know what needed to be done. They already knew the priorities.”