By Staff Sgt. Noshoba Davis, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
LAKE CHARLES, La. – Louisiana National Guard leaders and state officials joined representatives from Chennault International Airport, Porche/May Architects, LLC and Alfred Palma, LLC for a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Lake Charles Field Maintenance Shop at the Lake Charles Readiness Center, Oct. 21, 2026.
The 11,236-square-foot facility is designed to support vehicle maintenance and specialty supply operations. Once complete, it will include two work bays, administrative and specialty supply areas, military vehicle parking and workspace for seven full-time personnel.
“Today’s ceremony is about much more than a new facility,” said Maj. Gen. Thomas C. Friloux, adjutant general of Louisiana. “It’s about investing in readiness, strengthening our ability to answer our nation’s call and ensuring that the Soldiers of the Louisiana National Guard have the resources they need to train, maintain and fight as part of the most capable military in the world.”
The new maintenance shop will combine modern design with traditional military architectural elements. Construction is expected to cost more than $8.8 million, with completion scheduled for late 2027.
“Louisiana is experiencing historic economic momentum. Over the last two years alone, our state has attracted more than $260 billion in new capital investment, positioning Louisiana as a leader in economic growth and opportunity. As that growth continues, so too does the importance of maintaining a ready and capable National Guard force,” said Friloux.
Louisiana National Guard citizen-Soldiers and Airmen live and work in the local communities benefiting from this type of economic development and prosperity.