– Leading Louisiana: Industry, Infrastructure & Intent — Larry Richard on Iberia Parish’s Future

Episode 3 – Leading Louisiana

Leading Louisiana: Industry, Infrastructure & Intent — Larry Richard on Iberia Parish’s Future

Not every business is a good fit for Iberia Parish. We have an unbelievable culture, and we want to keep that—but we also need to ensure growth benefits our community.

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Episode Summary

M. Larry Richard joins host Kathryn Fenstermaker to discuss the leadership, planning and partnerships driving transformation in Iberia Parish. Drawing from his diverse background in military service, oil and gas and public leadership, Richard shares how experience has shaped his approach to economic development and infrastructure investment.

A central focus of the conversation is the Acadiana Regional Airport Access Road, now Corporate Drive, a critical project designed to support major industrial growth including the $1.1 billion First Solar facility. Richard explains how strategic planning and early engagement with industry leaders helped position the parish to meet strict logistics requirements and attract large-scale investment.

The discussion also explores how Iberia Parish balances transportation, drainage, water and sewer initiatives through careful prioritization and long-term planning. Richard emphasizes the importance of collaboration with state and federal partners, as well as agencies like CPRA, to advance coastal resilience and secure funding for critical projects.

Throughout the episode, he reflects on leadership lessons rooted in humility, consistency and community connection. From preserving cultural heritage to preparing for future growth, Richard shares a vision centered on sustainable development, quality of life and leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.

“Corporate Drive is the entrance where you’re going into First Solar.”

“We realized we needed to meet travel-time criteria to attract companies like FedEx.”

Meet the Leader Behind the Vision

M. Larry Richard has served as Iberia Parish President since 2016 after more than a decade on the parish council. His career spans military service, leadership in the oil and gas industry and entrepreneurship, giving him a broad perspective on economic development and infrastructure planning.

Under his leadership, Iberia Parish has advanced major projects including the Acadiana Regional Airport Access Road, drainage improvements and roadway expansions tied to long-term growth. He played a key role in attracting transformative investments such as the First Solar manufacturing facility. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Richard remains focused on balancing economic progress with cultural preservation and community well-being.

“Not every business is a good fit for Iberia Parish.”

“If you want something to change, be the change you want to see.”

Driving Growth and Preserving Culture: Larry Richard on Iberia Parish’s Future

From developing Corporate Drive to support major industrial investment to advancing drainage and coastal resilience projects, Richard shares how strategic planning and collaboration drive long-term success. We also discuss leadership lessons, preserving cultural identity and preparing communities for future growth.

“We have an unbelievable culture, and we want to keep that.”

“Family support keeps me grounded through all of this work.”

Episode Highlights

• Developing the Acadiana Regional Airport Access Road (Corporate Drive) to support major industrial growth

• Supporting the $1.1 billion First Solar facility with infrastructure designed for heavy logistics demands

• Advancing roadway improvements including roundabouts, extensions and highway upgrades

• Balancing transportation, drainage, water and sewer projects through strategic prioritization

• Strengthening coastal resilience through projects like Bayou Parc Perdue and regional studies

• Collaborating with agencies like CPRA to secure funding and advance infrastructure initiatives

• Navigating complex policy decisions including proposals for an independent airport district

• Leading with a philosophy rooted in service, resilience and community-focused growth

• Preserving Iberia Parish’s culture while evaluating sustainable economic development opportunities

• Emphasizing family, partnerships and long-term vision in leadership and decision-making

“Growth should always improve quality of life for the community.”

“The access road is simply to make it easier and safer… we can have one hundred plus trucks a day going into First Solar.”

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