June 23, 2023 | From City of New Orleans
City of New Orleans Reminds Residents of Dangers, Illegalities Surrounding Lincoln Beach
NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans today reminded residents that Lincoln Beach is not safe right now. Closed since 1964, structures and facilities at Lincoln Beach have gradually deteriorated over time due to lack of maintenance and a barrage of hurricane impacts, causing unsafe conditions at the site. This site is inhabited by alligators, venomous snakes and other wildlife.
The City of New Orleans has successfully secured a total of $24.6 million in funding to redevelop this important recreational site. The City started its funding redevelopment efforts in 2020 and published a site assessment in Spring 2021. As a result of an unprecedented bond sale, the Cantrell Administration team is the first administration to allocate financial resources to Lincoln Beach in over six decades.
A number of safety improvements are required before it can be reopened, including but not limited to:
- Retro-fitting the existing tunnel structure to meet ADA compliance
- Repairing the east and west shelters and the brick perimeter wall
- Resealing the concrete panels
- Removing the waterfront structures
- And re-establishing the water and sewer utilities
Until we know how we can safely re-introduce Lincoln Beach to New Orleanians, we need residents to steer clear. Crossing the railroad tracks is unsafe and prohibited by federal law. Please don't risk your health, and that of emergency responders, by climbing over the floodwall and trespassing onto the site.
This administration recognizes the historic, cultural significance and natural beauty of Lincoln Beach and has been working to revitalize this area to re-open it for the public. The newly redeveloped Lincoln Beach will provide equitable access to an open green space, as well as family friendly recreational activities. It will also reconnect our people to nature while developing an appreciation for our local ecosystems and biodiversity.
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