The New Orleans Downtown Development District says it wants to focus on safety and quality of life. The head of the DDD told members of the New Orleans City Council its strategy for 2022 includes public safety, litter removal, and homeless outreach.
If people don't feel safe downtown, then they won't spend time downtown. DDD president and CEO Davon Barbour told members the council's Quality of Life Committee.
"We certainly understand that at the end of the day, public safety is about boots on the ground and policing," said Barbour, "however, at the DDD we take a comprehensive approach to public safety."
Barbour told the council their staff can help watch for code violations and work to get them corrected.
"We've been in conversation with our partners at Department of Code Enforcement, and we're looking to deputize our rangers," he said. "While we believe in the carrot approach, there's also the need for the stick, as well."
The DDD is also offering grants to building owners with the aim of improving outdoor lighting.
"We know when there's more light in the public realm, people feel more safe," he explained.
Barbour said the DDD is also working to connect homeless people in the downtown area with services.
"Homelessness is complex. There may be issues related to housing affordability, mental health assistance, substance abuse treatment," said Barbour. "The Downtown Development District does provide-- contribute $500,000 annually to the low-barrier shelter."
