City and Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority partner to improve downtown infrastructure

NEW ORLEANS, LA – June 24, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — Yesterday, the New Orleans City Council passed an ordinance at the request of Mayor Mitch Landrieu and the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority that will make way for important infrastructure improvements in the French Quarter and Central Business District. Under a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement signed in March 2013, the Exhibition Hall Authority has agreed to finance $6.5 million in infrastructure improvements identified in the downtown area.

“The French Quarter and Central Business District serve as New Orleans’ front door and these important historic areas deserve to be in the best condition possible,” Mayor Landrieu said. “By partnering with the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority, we are putting our best face forward. These infrastructure improvements will benefit residents and visitors alike.”

Melvin Rodrigue, President of the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority said, “The Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority and Convention Center are committed to doing our part to improve residents and visitors experience when they are in the French Quarter and Central Business District. Downtown New Orleans is already a fantastic place to visit, work, live, and play. By making these improvements, we are raising the bar.”

The following streets will be resurfaced: Dorsiere St. from Bienville St. to Canal St., Iberville St. from North Rampart St. to North Peters St, and Julia St. from Convention Center Blvd. to Loyola Ave. Additional infrastructure improvements will include new ADA-compliant ramps, sidewalk repairs, driveway apron repairs, drainage point repairs, new street striping and crosswalks, new lighting, signage improvements, and sanitation. Construction will begin in early July and is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2013.

Deputy Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer Andy Kopplin said, “I want to thank Melvin Rodrigue and the Exhibition Hall Authority Board for their leadership on this project. These infrastructure improvements will enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”