LACASSINE, La. (October, 15 2025) — South Louisiana Rail Facility (SLRF) announced plans to invest $2.1 million to expand its operations in Jefferson Davis Parish, strengthening Louisiana’s rice industry and creating new economic opportunities for farmers across the Southwest Region.
The project will add new bagging and warehouse equipment at the company’s facility in the Lacassine Agri-Industrial Park, increasing production efficiency and enabling SLRF to serve additional global markets. The expansion is expected to create 10 direct new jobs and retain 12 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates another 51 indirect jobs, resulting in 61 total new employment opportunities in the region.
“South Louisiana Rail Facility’s expansion is a powerful example of how strategic investment in infrastructure fuels long-term growth,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “This project strengthens Louisiana’s agricultural economy by supporting farmers, creating jobs, and expanding access to global markets.”
Construction is expected to begin in December 2025 and conclude by May 2026. The state supported the project with a $500,000 Economic Development Award Program (EDAP) grant to assist with eligible equipment costs.
“At South Louisiana Rail Facility, we’re not just moving commodities – we’re driving economic growth, strengthening Louisiana’s agricultural industry, and connecting our farmers to global markets,” said Ronnie Petre, Vice Chairman of SLRF.
This latest investment builds on SLRF’s 2020 expansion, which added a rice mill to increase local processing capacity. The company’s continued growth underscores the importance of agribusiness infrastructure in advancing Louisiana’s export capabilities.
“SLRF has been a key partner in supporting our farmers, and this expansion will strengthen the local economy while creating high-quality jobs right here at home,” said Cesilee Oliver, Director of Economic Development for Jefferson Davis Parish.
About South Louisiana Rail Facility
South Louisiana Rail Facility, LLC is an agricultural export and processing company based in Lacassine, Louisiana, dedicated to supporting local farmers and advancing the state’s rice and grain industry. The facility features high-capacity grain storage, rail-loading infrastructure, and a modern rice mill connecting Louisiana producers to domestic and global markets.
About Louisiana Economic Development (LED)
Louisiana Economic Development drives job creation, investment, and community growth statewide. Learn more about how LED is building Louisiana’s economy at OpportunityLouisiana.com.
Media Contact:
Emma Wagner, LED Communications Director
Emma.Wagner@la.gov
912.467.2117
Mark Pousson, General Manager
Mark@slrf.org
337.370.1958
