NEW ORLEANS — We're approaching the heart of carnival season but new rules are putting a damper on some peoples’ parade plans – restrictions that impact a basic human need on the route.
On Orleans Avenue, the flags are up, barricades are out and spots are already being saved as people get ready for the floats, bands and throws of Carnival season. But it’s what you won’t see along parade routes this year that’s upsetting residents like Rob LaFluer.
“A basic Mardi Gras accommodation is having a place to go," LaFluer said.
The City of New Orleans recently announced new rules it says will help make Carnival safer. It includes eliminating some of the bathrooms people usually use along the route.
The ordinance bans people from parking certain types of vehicles two blocks from any parade route between four hours before and four hours after a parade. That includes campers, recreational vehicles and trucks with port-o-lets.
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LaFleur has watched Endymion since the 80s. A family affair, he makes sure they have what they need. And since public bathrooms on Orleans Avenue are notoriously slim pickings, he provides his own.
"A clean port-o-let makes it where my mother can come out, my aunt and uncle, my special needs nephew,” he said.
The new rule means people will have to rely on the portable restrooms the city provides - but LaFluer and others say that's just not enough.
"Often by the time the parade comes, the port-o-potties are at capacity… it's not fit for most people to use," he said.
The situation stinks because while he agrees safety is important, LaFleur says removing their ability to provide a close bathroom isn't the answer.
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"I don't know what residents would rather, a port-o-let in the back of a pickup truck or some inconsiderate parade-goers relieving themselves in their yard."
LaFleur says one thing that may help is if a row of port-o-lets is added nearby instead of a couple every block.
Homeowners we spoke with off-camera say they worry about that. But for now, if you're on the parade route you'll have to make do with the city's solution.
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