A key vote is set in the New Orleans City Council today to advance a plan for the city and Jefferson Parish to breathe pre-Katrina life back into the lakefront.
The council is considering giving the mayor authority to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with Jefferson Parish, the State of Louisiana, the New Orleans Municipal Yacht Harbor Management Cooperation, and others.
The goal is to move plans forward to resolve years of governmental gridlock on redevelopment of an area wiped out more than 20 years ago when Hurricane Katrina blew through.
The deal calls for a 50-50 split of proceeds from redeveloping lakefront property and creation of the West End Economic Development District.
Mayor Helena Moreno and Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng have both expressed support for the effort to try and return the area to pre-storm vibrancy. It was home to entertainment venues and restaurants more than a generation ago.
However; issues with taxes, leases and parish lines have left the area vacant.
The new vision calls for shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities.
