NEW ORLEANS — Less than half a mile long, a public sidewalk outside Tulane University in New Orleans could soon become not so public. That’s because the private university wants to lease it from the city.
According to a university spokesman, Tulane would improve and maintain the right-of-way along Freret Street between Calhoun Street and Newcomb Boulevard. The plan includes adding lighting and pedestrian walkways. It could also mean control over what’s allowed on the sidewalk.
“Over the years, vendors have solicited, and street preachers have antagonized students and staff in this area which is virtually indistinguishable from our campus property,” reads part of a statement sent to WWL Louisiana from a Tulane University spokesman.
The university says a possible lease has been in the works for years, but recent protests have put more of a focus on public spaces next to campus. A “Free Palestine” rally last Fall on the sidewalk spilled onto Freret Street, turning violent. Back in May, a massive protest unfolded outside Tulane along St. Charles Avenue.
“During these protests, it was obvious the sidewalks were too narrow to safely accommodate all participants, especially along a heavily trafficked street. Large, impassioned crowds and moving vehicles are a dangerous combination,” reads another part of Tulane University’s statement.
WWL Louisiana asked if demonstrations would still be allowed on the sidewalk. The university said they would if protocols of “appropriate time, manner, and place restrictions” are followed.
This project is not a done deal. The university plans to do a traffic study next month and combine that with the input already gotten from the neighborhood. From there, it heads to the city for consideration.”
Councilman Joe Giarrusso’s district includes that sidewalk, but he didn’t want to comment on a matter not yet before the council.
“This request must first go through the City Planning Commission process, which includes a recommendation from CPC staff and a public vote by the commission. Only then does it go before City Council for final consideration,” read a statement to WWL Louisiana from Giarrusso.
The university does not plan to close Freret Street to vehicular traffic. The lease would only apply to the sidewalk area. The lease application could be filed later this year.
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