During this holiday season, drivers and pedestrians in the French Quarter and Central Business District face a significant challenge as New Orleans initiates new roadwork projects in preparation for Super Bowl LIX. The Department of Public Works reports that construction began in November on five crucial road projects across downtown. These projects encompass extensive roadway and sidewalk repairs, the replacement of steel columns to manage Bourbon Street vehicle traffic, and the rehabilitation of the Hard Rock Hotel collapse site. Prepare for Super Bowl LIX with New Orleans' Roadwork Challenges
CBD Right of Way Repairs
Under the supervision of contractor Barriere Construction Co., crews are working tirelessly day and night to complete repairs at various locations within the Central Business District. The expected completion date is January. During the week of December 15, Perdido Street will be closed between South Galvez Street and South Claiborne Avenue. This closure will impact several important locations such as Poydras Street (S. Broad – S. Galvez), Perdido Street (S. Galvez St. – Claiborne Ave.), Perdido Street (Loyola Ave. – St. Charles Ave.), Gravier Street (LaSalle St. – Loyola Ave.), Union Street (S. Rampart St. – Carondelet St.), Natchez Street (Camp St – Tchoupitoulas St.), North Maestri Place (St. Charles Ave. – Camp St.), South Maestri Place (St. Charles Ave. – Camp St.), Girod Street (Loyola Ave. – Convention Center Blvd.), Howard Avenue (Loyola Ave. – Tivoli Circle), South Prieur Street (Perdido St. – Tulane Ave.), Carondelet Street (Poydras St. – Canal St.), St. Charles Avenue (Poydras St. – Canal St.), and South Broad Street (Howard Ave.- Euphrosine St.).
These extensive repairs are part of the ongoing efforts to enhance the infrastructure in the area and ensure a smooth flow of traffic and pedestrian movement during the Super Bowl and beyond.
Bollard Replacement on Bourbon Street
Last month, crews started removing and replacing steel bollards on Bourbon Street between Canal and St. Ann Streets. The purpose of this work is to prevent vehicles from entering areas that are heavily trafficked by pedestrians. The retractable columns were first installed in 2017 as part of new safety measures by the city. Work will continue on both sides of each street that intersects with Bourbon without closing the street to vehicle traffic, as per the traffic advisory.
This bollard replacement project is crucial in maintaining the safety of pedestrians and ensuring a safe environment during the busy Super Bowl period.
French Quarter Right of Way Project
Last week, temporary street closures began as roadway repairs were carried out in sections of three to four blocks at a time. The contractor for this project, Boh Bros Construction Co., will implement traffic control measures such as “No Parking/Tow Away Zone” signs in active work areas and install barrels and fencing to assist drivers and pedestrians in navigating safely.
The affected areas include Gov. Nicholls Street (600 – 1000 blocks), Ursulines Avenue (500 – 1000 blocks), St. Philip Street (600 – 1000 blocks), St. Ann Street (600, 900 – 1000 blocks), St. Louis Street (1100 block), Madison Street (600 block), St. Peter Street (600 block), Conti Street (500 – 600 / 900 – 1100 blocks), Clinton Street (200 block), Chartres Street (100 – 600 / 800 – 1300 blocks), Frenchmen Street (400 – 600 blocks), Burgundy Street (2200 – 2500 blocks), and Decatur Street (2200 – 2500 blocks). These closures are an essential part of the infrastructure improvement process.
Hotel Collapse Site Rehabilitation
Public Works and contractor Hard Rock Construction will announce street closures as required during the construction around the fatal 2019 Hard Rock Hotel collapse site. The project involves waterline installation, drainage upgrades, and pavement and sidewalk repairs, with an expected completion date of February 2025. The affected streets include North Rampart Street, Iberville Street, Canal Street, and Burgundy Street.
This rehabilitation work is a crucial step in the recovery and rebuilding process of the area and will contribute to the overall improvement of the infrastructure.
Sidewalk Repairs
Sidewalk repairs are also underway in various locations such as Pirates Alley, Lafayette Square (St Charles to Camp), and S. Rampart (Poydras to Canal). These repairs are essential for ensuring the safety and accessibility of pedestrians in the area.
The continuous efforts in sidewalk repairs demonstrate the city's commitment to providing a safe and comfortable environment for all residents and visitors.