NEW ORLEANS — Mayor LaToya Cantrell welcomed Carnival season with a King's Day Celebration at Mardi Gras World on Saturday morning.
City officials paraded with the Zulu Tramps as they announced plans and expectations for Carnival. A presentation of a study by Tulane Economics professor Toni Weiss estimated a $900 million economic impact for the city's signature event.
The celebration provides more than 3 percent of New Orleans' Gross Domestic Product. According to our partners at Nola.com, Weiss said for every dollar the city spends, it generates $2.64, resulting in almost $28 million in revenue.
Weiss also said the city could benefit from Orleans Parish alone, with an estimated $14 million in tax receipts.
Officials said they are prepared to have enough officers by recruiting visiting police officers.
Our partners at Nola.com spoke to the city's chief administrative officer, Gilbert Montano, who said the budget is $2.5 million this season for visiting law enforcement. Montano said the "overall agreement" will be sent to the City Council next week.
Saturday officially kicked off parade season with Mardi Gras on Tuesday, Feb. 13.
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