New Orleans is turning 300!
New Orleans is one of the most unique and diverse cities in the world and to celebrate 300 years of rich history, diversity, cultural traditions and resilience, the city will be celebrating in true New Orleans fashion.
A variety of special events, concerts, fireworks and completion of major infrastructure projects will take place in 2018 to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of New Orleans. 2018 not only marks where the city has been, but also sets the course for where it is going.
To celebrate, throughout the Tricentennial year, the cities historic buildings, parks and roads will undergo renovations and improvements make the city more successful in the next 300 years.
Renovations and Improvements
The Historic Gallier Hall is undergoing full-scale restoration and preservation as the legacy project of the Tricentennial. The renovations will preserve the landmark and allow for better use in centuries to come.
Louis Armstrong International Airport is undergoing construction – adding a new North Terminal with over 650,000 sq. ft., two concourses, 30 gates and local vendors.
With major efforts to repair citywide roads, Bourbon Street is undergoing an upgrade. The most carousing street in the city has not been upgraded since 1928. The street is currently replacing existing drain and water lines, sewer lines, gas pipes and electrical conduits. The street will be resurfaced with concrete, making it a pedestrian only corridor.
The streetcar routes have been increased with the Rampart and St. Claude line and the Loyola Avenue line. Public transportation continues to be an important focus to the city.
The Lafitte Greenway bicycle and pedestrian trail and park stretches 2.6 miles from the French Quarter to Bayou St. John and Mid-City. The conversion of an industrial railway into a recreational space connects neighborhoods, encourages outdoor activity, improves cyclist’s paths and features storm water retentions.
The New Orleans Riverfront has also been restored to become a lovely public urban green space. Visitors and locals can walk in Crescent Park, a stretch along the river that connects the Bywater neighborhood to the French Market. Not only has this restoration of the riverfront provided another beautiful space for people (and pets!) to enjoy and engage the community within, but the park provides incredible views of the downtown New Orleans skyline.
In the past 2 years, five remodeled recreation centers opened around the city. The centers feature computers, wi-fi and new programs such as robotics and Chevron Future Leaders program. The centers are encouraging places for the city’s youth to learn and grow.
Events
In honor of the Tricentennial, there will be a variety of events unique to 2018 and annual events will be bigger than ever! The celebration will kick off with Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Official Countdown. To check out the events planned for the year so far, visit 2018nola.com/events and this year-at-a-glance calendar for annual celebrations.
Merchandise
Support the New Orleans Tricentennial and show off your pride by purchasing some of the exclusive 2018 merchandise. From flags and license plates to Mignon Faget jewelry and Harley London cufflinks, 2018nola.com/merchandise is your place to shop.
For updates and information about the New Orleans Tricentennial, stay tuned to 2018nola.com.
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