The New Orleans Transportation and Airport Committee met on April 2 to discuss several key topics, including the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan, public transit developments, traffic safety studies, and airport operations.
The meeting addressed important issues affecting transportation safety and mobility in New Orleans. City officials reviewed efforts to reduce traffic fatalities, improve transit options, enhance infrastructure, and respond to challenges caused by a partial government shutdown.
Representatives from the Health Department and Department of Public Works presented details about the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan (SAP), which aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2041. The plan targets improvements along high-risk corridors that account for most severe crashes in the city. Proposed investments total $171.7 million for design changes such as better lighting, crosswalks, protected intersections, and speed control measures. The City Council formally endorsed this plan through Resolution R-26-137.
Amtrak’s Director of Governmental Affairs updated the committee on Mardi Gras Service—a twice-daily passenger train between New Orleans and Mobile that began service in August 2025. Since its launch, ridership has exceeded expectations with over 92,000 trips recorded. Customer satisfaction remains high due to amenities like Wi-Fi and positive staff interactions.
Scott Boyle from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development outlined progress on a comprehensive study of St. Claude Avenue’s traffic safety needs. Contracts are being finalized for both short-term feasibility improvements—such as curb ramps and signal upgrades—and long-term upgrades including protected bike lanes. Boyle estimated project costs at approximately $30 million.
Regional Transit Authority representatives reported rising bus ridership in 2025 despite a dip in streetcar use last year. They highlighted ongoing capital projects such as a renovation of Algiers Ferry Terminal worth $9.8 million, plans for Bus Rapid Transit routes across the city, expanded bus fleets—including electric vehicles—and targeted service improvements based on community feedback.
Kevin Dolliole from the New Orleans Aviation Board discussed capital projects at Louis Armstrong International Airport as well as impacts from a partial federal government shutdown affecting TSA staffing levels; however back pay was issued recently with staffing expected to stabilize during peak travel periods.
