Redevelopment Framework

Redevelopment Framework (RDF)

In the Policy Implementation & Program Design role, OCAI reaches across departments and entities to ensure that policy changes directly impact and benefit residents, and that the initial vision of transformative policy changes are brought to life.

Context

Due to land costs, it has become extremely difficult to create affordable housing and mission-driven development in New Orleans’ amenity-rich areas. Many of New Orleans’ weaker residential markets have a strong social fabric and cultural significance but lack access to basic amenities like grocery stores, healthcare services, and financial institutions.

Approach

OCAI established a working group comprised of internal partners, which provide guidance on the redevelopment of underutilized City properties. Properties best positioned to meet the City’s housing, economic development, and community development needs are leased to the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA). The City then works with NORA to design a rigorous solicitation process for developers to transform underutilized and neglected city-owned properties into neighborhood-serving assets and affordable housing for our residents.

Result

The resulting Redevelopment Framework fundamentally changes how the City manages its assets and invests in our collective goals and vision for our future. This proactive and strategic process ensures our most valuable properties are utilized not just for their highest and best use, but as a lever to address our most urgent needs and achieve the Administration’s goals.