By MOLLY DRYMAN

Staff Reporter

NORCO — The concept of constructing a new airport in the Bonnet Carre Spillway, as suggested by New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, has residents of the area gearing up to fight against it.

Councilman Richard “Dickie” Duhe of Norco said he was “totally against it.”

“I have come up with a solution to this after speaking to the residents of Montz and Norco,” said Duhe. “They have even stopped my wife to make sure she tells me not to let this happen.”

Duhe said these neighborhoods are quiet and peaceful and this would be a negative impact with the noise, traffic and safety.

“It will never happen,” said Duhe. “I don’t even think the Corp of Engineers will give them the permission to do this. This structure (Spillway) protects New Orleans and the

River Parishes from flooding. I have seen how much water comes through here and would invite any of them to come see it.”

Duhe said the area already has nuclear and chemical plants and the residents have put their lifesavings into making their neighborhood better and building their homes.

“We do not need this,” said Duhe. “I will be presenting my resolution to the St. Charles Parish Council at the next meeting on the first Monday in June.”

According to Published reports Mayor Ray Nagin said this project would “be an economic stimulus for the New Orleans region and the entire state.” The estimated cost of the possible construction of the airport in the Spillway is $5 billion.