The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) officially opened its new headquarters at Churchill Technology & Business Park on the Westbank.
Three separate buildings make up the complex, housing JEDCO’s administrative and finance offices, along with its business incubator, the Business Innovation Center. At a total cost of $6 million, JEDCO financed over $4 million through the sale of federal and state new market tax credits. It also received $2 million in Community Development Block Grants for the business incubator, generator and generator building.
According to Chairman Manny Blanco, JEDCO incorporated environmentally sound practices not only into the building itself, but also throughout the entire building process. “Energy efficient day lighting, clean air filters and timers on exterior lighting have been put in place along with water conservation systems such as low flow restrooms and drought tolerant landscaping.”
The organization is in the process of applying for its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.
In addition to its technological capabilities and energy efficient systems, the complex features an impressive art collection from some of the most popular artists in the area: Hunt Slonem and George Rodrigue. The pieces are promised gifts from benefactors Jerri and Jack Stumpf and Pat and Henry Shane.
“This building represents the future of economic development in Jefferson Parish. Its strategic location inside the Churchill Tech Park underscores the parish’s commitment to growing the high tech and international trade and logistics industries,” said Parish President John Young. “Its modern design reflects progressive movement and innovative thinking. Its state of the art equipment, expanded space and redundant systems all contribute to a better, more efficient organization,” he said.
Churchill Technology & Business Park | 700 Churchill Parkway | Avondale, Louisiana 70094 | Email Us | 504-875-3908
