KEY TAKEAWAYS: Loop Linen Service broke ground on a new 62,000-square-foot facility in Avondale. The project represents a total $25.1 million investment in Jefferson Parish. The company will retain 125 jobs while relocating from its longtime Westwego facility. State and local partners provided $850,000 in grants to support infrastructure and site development.   Family-owned textile rental company Loop Linen Service has broken ground on a new commercial laundry facility in Avondale as part of a $25.1 million investment aimed at modernizing operations and retaining jobs in Jefferson Parish. Company officials joined representatives from the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission, local government, financial partners and community leaders Wednesday to mark the start of construction on the 62,000-square-foot facility. The new plant represents a $16.4 million construction project and will replace Loop Linen’s longtime Westwego facility, which the company has occupied since 1931. The investment will retain 125 jobs and position the company for future growth as it approaches its 100th anniversary. Founded in 1929, Loop Linen has evolved from a neighborhood laundry and dry-cleaning business into a textile rental company serving customers throughout Louisiana and Mississippi. The new facility will be located near the intersection of U.S. 90 and Louisiana Highway 18 in Avondale. Company officials said the project is expected to improve operational efficiency, provide a modern workplace for employees and support future expansion. The building was designed by Woodward Design + Build. “Jefferson Parish has always been home to Loop Linen Service and our employees,” Loop Linen President Scott M. Burke said in a statement. “Breaking ground on this new facility is an exciting milestone for our company and our family.” The project received support from state and local economic development programs. JEDCO worked with the Louisiana Economic Development Award Program to secure a $500,000 infrastructure grant tied to capital investment and job retention commitments. Separately, the Jefferson Parish Council approved a $350,000 grant to help cover pre-development site costs. JEDCO administered the local grant program on behalf of the parish. JEDCO President and CEO Jerry Bologna said the project represents a significant business retention win for Jefferson Parish. “Loop Linen Service has been a cornerstone of Jefferson Parish’s business community for nearly 100 years,” Bologna said. “Their decision to make this significant investment here is a testament to the strength of our local economy.” Economic development officials said infrastructure improvements associated with the project could also enhance development opportunities on nearby properties, helping improve site readiness and attract future investment to the corridor. Jefferson Parish Councilman Deano Bonano said the project will benefit both the company and the surrounding area. “The infrastructure improvements associated with this project will not only support Loop Linen Service’s growth but also help position surrounding properties for future development and investment in this corridor,” Bonano said. Financing for the project was provided by Bonvenu Bank in partnership with Regional Loan Corporation through the U.S. Small Business Administration loan program. Laundry equipment for the facility will be supplied by Kenner-based Pellerin Milnor Corp., a manufacturer of commercial laundry systems. Construction is underway, and the facility is expected to be completed and operational approximately 16 months after the groundbreaking ceremony. ...read more read less