, a move local leaders say will bring relief to Plaquemines Parish residents and small businesses that claim the crossing has driven away customers.

"For everyone out there with problems crossing that toll bridge, today those tolls are suspended," Landry said.

The suspension comes after months of complaints about toll operator fees and penalties. State Sen. Pat Connick said a trip that should cost 25 cents was ballooning to as much as $25 after taxes and fees, saddling commuters and local businesses with unexpectedly high bills.

For nearly 50 years, Dale Adams has greeted customers at Adams Catfish House with a plate of seafood, a sweet tea, and a smile. Since the construction of the Belle Chasse Bridge began, he said, business has been declining.

"People would sit here and say, I hate

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