By ROBERT L. LEE

VACHERIE – Work will begin Feb. 4 to overlay and widen Louisiana Highway 20.

St. James Parish President Dale Hymel told parish council members that one lane of the highway will be open at all times to continue the flow of traffic from Vacherie to Thibodaux and Nicholls State University.

Hymel also said he is scheduled to meet Wednesday with BellSouth phone technicians to resolve recent problems with phone lines and Internet connections in the parish.

During the presentations and comments portion of the most-recent council meeting, Blaise Gravois, a representative from District seven for the economic development board, explained what he and an increasing group have been doing in an effort to bring the intermodal airport to St. James Parish.

Gravois said the group started with only a few members of the public, but has grown to some meetings with more than 40 attendants.

“We just wanted the facts and to make sure we are doing the right thing for the parish,” said Gravois.

He said he and his yet unnamed group are in support of the proposed airport in the parish and welcomed the council members to upcoming meetings.

His speech received positive comments and questions from almost every board member.

Hymel also commended Gravois for standing up for what he believes in and forming a group for something positive.

“I congratulate you for standing up “What this project can bring is positive and what you’re doing is great,” said District three councilmember Wilson Malbrough Jr. “I think you will see overwhelming support.”

“It’s good to see a group organized with positive intentions. We usually see groups organize to focus on negatives, ” said District one councilmember Elwyn Bocz.