GeauxPass Customer Service Center Fails to Deliver Relief: Residents Speak Out

GeauxPass Temporary Customer Service Center Opens Amid Ongoing Frustration

A GeauxPass customer service center has opened in Plaquemines Parish, but residents report they're still not experiencing meaningful relief from their toll-related issues.

Toll Suspension Doesn't Ease Community Concerns

While tolls along the Belle Chasse Bridge have been suspended, resident frustration remains at unprecedented levels. "This feels like highway robbery on Belle Chasse highway," said Aderonke Akingbola, expressing the community's sentiment.

Akingbola shared her troubling experience: after multiple calls to resolve her bill, she agreed to pay $1,000, only to discover the amount had increased to $1,400 when she attempted payment. "She said your bill is now $1,400, and I'm like, what?" Akingbola recounted.

Temporary Service Center Operations

The temporary customer service center opened at the Government Complex following the toll suspension. Councilwoman Patty McCarty visited the facility and learned the operation will remain in place for 90 days.

McCarty reported concerning attendance numbers: "Friday, when they opened, they only had 32 people come, and right now today, they've only had 11 people come thus far." The center employs seven staff members dedicated to GeauxPass discussions, with two DOTD officials also present.

Official Statement and Limitations

In an official statement, PBIC confirmed: "The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD) has coordinated with PIBC and GeauxPass to create this temporary Customer Service Center in Belle Chasse. GeauxPass staff will be on hand weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to support customers with GeauxPass registration, account management, and general tolling inquiries."

However, the statement clearly notes that staff cannot address issues related to tolling policy or the recent tolling pause announced by Governor Landry. Customers are reminded that all transactions and fees incurred before the October 2nd suspension remain valid and due.

Business Impact and Economic Consequences

Councilwoman McCarty revealed the toll situation has caused significant economic damage, with area businesses losing approximately 17% of revenue as people avoid crossing the bridge due to fear of unaffordable bills.

"They've seen an influx of patronage lately, but if the tolls go back on, that's not going to last," McCarty warned, noting that several businesses fear closure within months.

Local Business Owner's Perspective

Regina Roubion, owner of Roubion's Tire & Auto Center, voiced her frustration: "It just doesn't sit right, it's not right and it's definitely not fair." She described the dramatic decline in her business: "Do you see any customers sitting? We used to always have customers sitting and waiting, always. It's slow."

Roubion questioned the fundamental approach to infrastructure funding: "We have taxes that are allocated for roads and bridges. Why couldn't have they used that money?"

Despite the temporary service center's presence, residents and business owners continue to seek genuine solutions to the ongoing toll-related challenges affecting their daily lives and livelihoods.