NEW ORLEANS — A once bustling beach turned into a stranded one after Lincoln Beach closed decades ago. But now residents like activist Reggie Ford are finally seeing some hope for its return.
"It's kind of dragging, it's time for the city and the developers to get it moving," Ford said. "It's good to see everyone come together in one building so I'm always hopeful to see everybody at the table."
Thursday, a company in charge of planning the return to Lincoln Beach invited community members, stakeholders, and public officials on a tour of the site.
WWL Louisiana was initially invited on the tour by the planning group – but when we arrived, we were told the city revoked the invitation.
Instead, a representative for the city, Cheryn Robles, the project manager for Lincoln Beach shared some plans like a fishing pier.
"Some kayaking and some recreation we've been asked for some music and an area for a music venue," Robles said. "Long term we're also looking at probably having a bridge from the parking lot that goes over the flood wall over the railroad tracks and into Lincoln Beach."
But Ford disagrees with some of the plans – saying the parking lot should be bigger. He said it's important to do everything we can to enrich the area.
Robles said they're working to do a quick open, cleaning it up and making it safe to swim before all the plans are finalized. They said they want to put a bid out this year.
The planning team wants to hear from you. There will be two public input meetings—one on Thursday, July 25, and another on Saturday, July 27.
Those will be at the New Orleans East Opportunity Center. To register visit LincolnBeachNola.com.
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