Greater New Orleans Inc. President Michael Hecht coined a new phrase with WWL's Newell Normand on the key to keeping the French Quarter safe while retaining its reputation as a playground for adults from around the world.
"We're all familiar with 'broken windows,' and a lot of the stuff we're dealing with, code violations and infrastructure," Hecht said. "I think what you have in the French Quarter is a new concept. It goes a little further. It's called "drunken windows.' It's when you have broken windows plus big ole' beers."
Jokes aside, Hecht told Newell it's about removing the things that contribute to an "atmosphere of lawlessness" and creating a safe environment where hospitality businesses can thrive.
"We're not talking about making the French Quarter a Disney-esque or even a Beale Street, but it should absolutely be a place where you can go with your family to have a nice dinner," Hecht explained, "or go on a date or go and have a drink or go listen to music without having to have any qualms or fears."
