The opening of a 140,000-square-foot Amazon delivery center in Slidell has been pushed back to 2024, marking another delay for the online retail giant.
Slidell Mayor Greg Comer said he recently spoke with an Amazon representative who didn’t give specific reasons for the delay, but he said the facility remains an active site on the company’s agenda. “They’re definitely coming,” he said.
In an emailed statement, Amazon spokesperson Steve Kelly said that while the company doesn't have a specific launch date to share publicly, the delivery station remains in their plans. “Once we have a better sense of timing, we'll work with the local community and employment organizations in the area to hire employees for this facility,” Kelly said.
Amazon first announced the center in March 2021 and construction of the building on Town Center Parkway near Old Spanish Trail is complete. The company had initially targeted 2022 for the opening of the $40 million facility. Then, last year that was pushed back to the first quarter of 2023.
Ongoing delays have been attributed to supply pipeline issues and fluctuations in post-pandemic consumer demand as people returned to shopping in stores. “Everything is dictated about the customer demand and market,” said Chris Masingill, head of St. Tammany Corporation, the parish’s economic development agency.
Masingill said Amazon is tactically bringing a series of new facilities online as part of its long-term operational plans. The company has also delayed the openings of a fulfillment center still under construction in Baton Rouge and a $200 million robotics center in Shreveport.
Cromer said that while he’d like to see the Slidell facility opened soon for commerce and job creation, he also acknowledged residents’ frustration when driving past the site that has sat vacant for a year.
Aimee Lion noted other empty buildings in the area, referencing the shuttered Factory Outlet Mall and the former site of Louisiana Technical College. “I wonder how long before something bad happens in one of those buildings,” she said.
Others said they’re ready to submit job applications when Amazon starts hiring in Slidell. “I’m really looking forward to it opening,” said Kayla Carbo. Carbo said she believes the new facility will bring plenty of job opportunities.
Local officials have said the facility would bring between 200-450 jobs.
Amazon is still maintaining the property. “They built a $40 million building out there. They keep the grass cut and debris picked up, you know. It's not in bad shape,” said Cromer.
The Slidell delivery station would be one of three in the state that act as a last stop for packages before they reach their ultimate destination.