NEW ORLEANS — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers authorized the construction of the Louisiana International Terminal on Monday.

The project plans to redefine Gulf Coast trade capacity, strengthening the U.S. supply chain and accelerating American manufacturing and commerce.

The terminal, currently planned to be built on the Lower Mississippi River, will allow direct access to the Gulf, connecting more than 30 states to global markets through direct access to major railroads and the interstate highway system. 

The endeavor, supported by Port NOLA, Terminal Investment Limited, the port terminal operating arm of MSC and Ports America, has passed through federal review with support from Louisiana's bipartisan congressional delegation and regional economic development leaders. 

"This is a defining moment not just for Louisiana, but for the entire country," said Gov. Jeff Landry. "The Louisiana International Terminal will stimulate economic growth and cement Louisiana's role as the nation's gateway to global trade."

According to independent economic analysis, cargo activity through Port NOLA currently supports more than $101 billion in total economic value nationwide, supporting over 122,000 jobs in Louisiana. 

The Louisiana International Terminal is expected to add thousands of additional jobs and generate billions of dollars in tax revenue across the country.