Property owners sue DOTD over alleged attempts to expropriate land for bridge construction

GRETNA – A local property owner is suing a department of the state of Louisiana for allegedly improperly attempting to expropriate their land.

Cochiara Holding Company and Ray Griffin Inc. filed suit against the State of Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development in the 24th Judicial District Court on Dec. 16.

Cochiara Holding Company and Ray Griffin Inc. claim that the Department of Transportation and Development is improperly attempting to expropriate their land for the Goose Bayou Bridge project. The plaintiffs assert that they are the owners of a nearby marina and bar. Cochiara Holding Company and Ray Griffin Inc. allege that the property is currently the subject of expropriation proceedings.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for loss of income, loss of future business potential, loss profit, increased cost of dong business, dimunition of value of business, limitations on use, inconvenience and loss of goodwill.

Cochiara Holding Company and Ray Griffin Inc. are represented by Daniel A. Ranson of Gretna-based Gaudry, Ranson, Higgins & Gremillion LLC.

The case has been assigned to Division A Judge Raymond S. Steib Jr.

Case no. 733-858.