One Small Step for FOLC, One Giant Leap
for New Orleans
The sustained efforts of a dedicated group collectively known as the Friends of Lafitte Corridor (FOLC)
paid off in a big way last week. On Thursday, August 9, the New Orleans City Council unanimously approved two measures supporting further
development of a linear park along the Lafitte Corridor presented by Councilmembers Midura and Head.
The first measure reserves and dedicates all land currently owned by
the City of New Orleans bounded by Basin Street,
St. Louis Street, North Jefferson Davis
Parkway and Lafitte Avenue, and a second area
encompassing the entire public right of way of St. Louis Street bounded by North Jefferson Davis Parkway and Canal
Boulevard.
The second measure, an Ordinance establishing an Advisory Task Force
to steer planning and implementation of the Greenway,will be voted on
in two weeks.
Why Develop a Trail and Park in the Lafitte Corridor?
Greater access to bike paths and walking trails serves the neighbors and general public by expanding
transportation options, increasing public health and providing much-needed open space in neighborhoods that often lack parks and other recreation
facilities.
The location of the corridor is critical. There is no other direct route between Mid-City and Tremé, the Quarter and the CBD that is
publicly-owned and generally undeveloped.
Access to trails can provide alternative routes to school for children. There are six reopened schools located within ¼ mile of the
trail.
Walking paths provide safe places for people to exercise and meet friends and neighborhoods.
Bike paths provide safe routes for commuters on bike.
The Urban
Conservancy, Stay Local!'s parent organization, is proud to serve as the
fiscal
agent on a Bikes Belong planning grant for this worthy project.
There's much left to be done. Learn more about
the Lafitte Corridor project and how you can help.
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