Take a look at the Bayou Chene Flood Control Structure

The newly completed Bayou Chene Flood Control Structure is the largest structure of its kind in the country. It was officially declared complete Friday with a ribbon-cutting.

The project consists of a holding structure and a 446-foot barge. When high water threatens, the barge can be moved into place across Bayou Chene, pivoting on giant pins. Once in place, it can be filled with water to setting into a holding structure beneath the bayou.

Sealevel Inc. of Thibodaux was the major contractor, and Bollinger's Amelia yard built the barge. In all, 130 people worked on the structure, which took two years to complete.

The $80 million project was funded through the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority.

It's designed to prevent back-flooding when the Atchafalaya River runs high, protecting 6,000 homes and 1,000 businesses in six parishes.

The Review/Bill Decker