NEW ORLEANS — A proposal to block off Canal Street neutral grounds to vehicular traffic in much of Mid-City has residents and businesses up in arms.
That’s the topic of this week’s Commentary by Eyewitness News Political Analyst and Gambit columnist Clancy DuBos.
It’s already difficult enough to navigate New Orleans. It could get worse.
The Regional Transit Authority is considering a plan to block off most crossing points along Canal Street, from Carrollton Avenue to Claiborne Avenue — and cut the number of stops along the Canal Streetcar line. The goal is to move streetcars through Mid-City faster.
Mid-City is more vibrant than ever, so why inhibit people from getting on and off streetcars, or driving to any of Mid-City’s thriving businesses? Worse, why make it harder for cops, fire fighters and EMS to cross Canal Street?
The RTA says it wants citizens’ input as part of its decision-making process. That’s fine, but ultimately the board should throw this idea under the bus. Or in this case, under the streetcar.