NEW ORLEANS — Big changes in infrastructure could be coming to New Orleans East. Congressman Troy Carter announced a multi-million dollar grant that would improve transit and pedestrian safety in the East.
“This is a really exciting investment being made into the city,” Infrastructure Administrator Dan Jatres said.
Congressman Troy Carter announced a project that will bring more than $60,000,000 in funding from the Department of Transportation to improve walkability and safety in New Orleans East.
“So, I have been able to secure $61,000,000 as part of the infrastructure money, which will give us an opportunity to invest significantly in building up and shoring up the infrastructure and New Orleans East, which will go a long way,” Carter said.
The reconnecting communities and neighborhood project includes plans for a biking path, additional RTA stops, and lighting for service roads along I-10.
“We’ve wanted this kind of attention for quite some time,” Council member Oliver Thomas said. “It will help establish New Orleans East as not just a place to live, but a place to be.”
Some locals hope the project will bring growth beyond infrastructure, bringing business back to New Orleans East.
“That’s what I want to see,” one resident said. The road and infrastructure are cool, but there used to be businesses and family-oriented things in the East.”
Two years ago, the city started looking for ways to make New Orleans East more accessible for all residents. Project administrator Dan Jatres describes the east as an auto-centric area, in a community with fewer cars than most.
“So there is a sizable number of residents in the area who, you know, really need improved transportation options and connections,” Jatres said.
Mayor Cantrell describes the project as an investment in the community.
“This project will build new connections between neighborhoods to ensure residents can safely access job opportunities and more,” Mayor Latoya Cantrell said. “This will further boost economic and workforce development, improving the quality of life for New Orleans East residents and welcoming more businesses to do work in the East."
City leaders say that the project is in the early stages, and they don’t have a timeline for the project’s completion.
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