The Super Bowl looms large here in New Orleans. If you’ve been traversing the greater Metro area lately, you’ve probably noticed the extra street closures, traffic jams, and other activities as the city ramps up toward the big game. While we may already be seeing signs of the madness to come, it certainly hasn’t hit the city full steam just yet.
Michael Hecht, CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc, says most people will probably start seeing the tourism influx truly be felt in earnest by Friday for certain. That’s when the city will really be clamping down on closures and security as the game draws closer. “If you don’t NEED to be downtown, I would probably advise against it. "I know that’s not always possible, but if you can walk it or ride-share, that would be recommended. It’s going to get very busy down there,” Hecht notes. He also adds that the NFL is already shutting down many of the areas around the Superdome as they prepare for the big game.
Although traversing downtown may be a pain, the ability to get around traffic jams is one of the reasons Hecht says New Orleans makes such a great host city. “Here, everything is within walking distance. The ability to get around from downtown to uptown, etc is such a small footprint and that’s why New Orleans is uniquely suited for these types of events,” Hecht notes. He also points to the unique culture of the Crescent City as a reason the NFL keeps coming back. “In an increasingly homogenous world, the culture we have here that comes out of our soil and our people … we’re just damn good at hosting events. It’s in our DNA,” Hecht adds.
Mark Romig, Sr. Vice President of New Orleans and Company also adds that Monday will be especially busy as events and ticketed parties start ramping up. He notes that fans will enter through the main gate on Poydras Street, where there will be additional security. Romig also points out that the NFL Fan Experience event will be kicking off on Wednesday at the Convention Center until Saturday, and you can expect lots of extra visitors around that area as well. He adds that he hopes locals are hospitable and patient with the influx of visitors who are here to see, enjoy, and spend money here in New Orleans.
For those looking to keep tabs on the state of traffic around the Super Dome, Ready.nola.gov/superbowl has ongoing updates, and WWL traffic will reports will continue to keep you updated on street closures as well.