07/17/2026
On the heels of our latest site certification announcement, we would like to take a minute to explain the site certification program and its benefits to St. Martin Parish.
Louisiana Economic Development's Certified Sites Program is designed to prepare properties for future economic development opportunities. To earn certification, a site undergoes extensive due diligence, including evaluations of infrastructure, utilities, environmental conditions, property boundaries, and other engineering reports.
Think of it like earning a "ready for development" designation. It tells prospective companies that much of the upfront research has already been completed, allowing them to make investment decisions more quickly and with greater confidence. It also allows for enhanced marketing opportunities through the certified site database.
Certification does not mean a company has selected the site. In fact, certification is not pursued if a company is already attached to a site. It simply means the property has met Louisiana Economic Development's rigorous standards and is now more competitive when opportunities arise.
Each certification SMEDA pursues is an investment in St. Martin Parish's future. It allows us to compete for projects that might otherwise pass us by because we don't have development-ready sites available.
We currently have six certified sites in St. Martin Parish, which have resulted in two significant job-producing projects. This program has benefitted us in the past, and will continue to create results in the future.
If you have any questions about the site certification program or have questions regarding a specific site, please feel free to reach out to this office.
You can also read more about the program here: https://www.opportunitylouisiana.gov/why-louisiana/certified-sites/certified-industrial-sites
