The New Orleans City Council endorsed on March 26 the redevelopment of the West End area by approving Resolution R-26-126, which supports House Bill 892 introduced by Representative Stephanie Hilferty. The bill aims to create an Economic Development District to manage the land and enter contracts for future projects in West End.
The initiative is significant because it addresses longstanding challenges in redeveloping a once-vibrant area that has remained mostly closed since Hurricane Katrina. The effort involves cooperation between Orleans and Jefferson parishes, as well as consultation with state officials due to jurisdiction over water bottoms.
District A Councilmember Aimee McCarron said, “I am proud to author Resolution R-26-126 and fully endorse House Bill 892, which signifies an incredible opportunity for New Orleans and Jefferson Parish to redevelop the West End area. This project shows a continued commitment to multi-parish collaboration, while promoting economic development that benefits residents and visitors of both parishes. I am thankful for the continued partnership with Rep. Stephanie Hilferty, Councilmember Hans Liljeberg, and Mayor Helena Moreno’s administration and look forward to reinvesting into one of our city’s greatest natural treasures.”
Mayor Helena Moreno said, “We’ve been waiting more than 20 years to bring back West End, and I’m proud to work collaboratively and urgently with the City Council, Jefferson Parish leaders, and the state to get this project moving.” Council President JP Morrell added, “Today’s vote of approval in the House’s Municipal Affairs Committee shows that multi-parish collaboration is not only a local issue, but a state issue that benefits everyone. West End is an often-overlooked historical neighborhood that has been a backbone for Lakeview residents for 100+ years. With this legislation moving forward, West End will finally receive the resources it deserves. Thank you to Councilmember Aimee McCarron and State Representative Stephanie Hilferty for their efforts to support the West End neighborhood and their constituents.”
Council Vice-President Matthew Willard said: “House Bill 892 is the first step to realize that vision for our beautiful lakefront at West End. It also endorses a collaborative, regional economic development model that will bring prosperity to the Greater New Orleans area. The progress we’re seeing didn’t happen on its own; it’s the result of Councilmember Aimee McCarron, State Representative Stephanie Hilferty, and many other local leaders working together to preserve what we cherish and maximize the lakefront’s potential.”
The next steps involve consideration of House Bill 892 on the floor of Louisiana’s House of Representatives after advancing out of committee.