With several businesses already closing and other suffering as a result of the more than a year-long Decatur Street project, help in on the way.
"This upcoming week, we will be announcing a grant program for businesses," New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno posted Sunday.
She says several groups have stepped up to help.
"I want to thank The Greater New Orleans Foundation for being a great partner to the city."
The mayor also thanked the French Market, French Quarter Management District and Greater New Orleans Inc.
It comes amidst a New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board project that has had a stretch of Decatur Street closed in the French Quarter for months.
Work started in March of 2025.
A news release from the S&WB says some of the delay is due to finding artifacts while tearing up the street.
"The discovery of historical artifacts required SWBNO to follow strict federally mandated archaeological review protocols, pausing work in affected areas for several weeks in late 2025 until reviews were complete. A recent second discovery required the same type of review."
Officials also blame French Quarter ordinances that limit hours and construction methods.
“The replacement of 115-year-old transmission water mains on Decatur Street and St. Peter Street has encountered significant challenges. Our utility acknowledges the very real impact this project has had on French Quarter business owners, and we take that seriously. We are reviewing all options to complete this project as quickly as possible," according to Executive Director Randy Hayman.
He says portions of the project are on track for completion by the end of this summer.
"The remainder of the work is expected to wrap up by late fall 2026. "
At least three businesses have gone out of business due to the construction-related revenue losses.
Creole restaurant Café Sbisa at 1011 Decatur Street, craft shop Dead on Decatur at 1105 Decatur Street, and Indian restaurant LUFU NOLA at 1117 Decatur Street all shut down.
