The Public Works, Sanitation and Environment Committee of New Orleans met on March 10 to hear updates from several city departments, including the Department of Sanitation and the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO). The committee also received progress reports on the Lincoln Beach Redevelopment Project and the Morrison Road Improvement Project.
These discussions are important as they address ongoing infrastructure challenges in New Orleans, including aging water systems, road improvements, and public sanitation services that affect residents across multiple neighborhoods.
Representatives for the Lincoln Beach Redevelopment Project reported that since November 2025, efforts have focused on finalizing design and construction plans. The project has been divided into three phases to manage costs more effectively. Currently, work is underway to complete the design phase for an on-site office parking lot, with construction expected to begin by year’s end.
The Department of Sanitation presented its organizational structure and a breakdown of its $70.5 million budget for 2026. The department described its waste collection services, enforcement activities through Sanitation Rangers, and upcoming events such as Shred Day on March 21 and Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on April 11 at 2829 Elysian Fields. More information is available at nola.gov/sanitation.
Updates were also provided about the Morrison Road Improvement Project. This $23.6 million initiative began construction in February with funding from both federal sources (80%) and the city’s bond program (20%). The project will span three phases over approximately 540 days, focusing on pavement repairs, bridge replacements, ADA curb ramps, greenway paths, landscaping, and improved crosswalks along Morrison Road.
Members of SWBNO addressed recent water main breaks—including a significant incident at Carrollton and Panola streets on March 9 that led to flooding and a boil water advisory affecting several neighborhoods. Crews isolated the break within hours; repairs are expected to restore normal service by week’s end. SWBNO highlighted ongoing challenges due to an aging network—34% of pipes are over a century old—and outlined efforts to replace mains, secure funding for upgrades, advance lead service line replacements, repair drainage systems like Dwyer Canal, and coordinate with other agencies during major events such as Mardi Gras cleanup.
Committee members urged SWBNO to act quickly regarding recent water main breaks as compounded failures continue to impact residents.
